We discover our true colours in the midst of adversity, a time of trial. Or in this case, a ‘time-trial’. I ran through a calf injury, so every other step (left foot) was uncomfortable, my Via Dolorosa. Crossing the finishing line (one of the greatest sights on the historic course!) was victory, triumph, conquest, liberation – “trod all his foes beneath his feet by being trodden down”. The glorious crown for me being a silver-blue disc.

And then, like Christ, I sat down. Though in my case, “It is finished!” was due to exhaustion. Jesus’, “It is finished!” led to dominion. The King of the kingdom resting on his throne, sending & empowering us with his Spirit of holiness... of justice... of joy.

Praying is SEEING, and I saw our Lord’s Prayer on the Marathon route last weekend. Peaceable community built around individual endeavour and shared purpose. Made up of charitable causes proclaiming faith, love & hope, as well as grief. Beautiful human beings such as Richard, raising awareness as well as monies for the Ruth Strauss Foundation, after his own wife Erica died of Stage 4 bowel cancer.

I saw God’s kingdom coming a few days ago in the Leicester Royal Infirmary A&E as I sought advice on my calf injury. Peaceable community built around tender nursing care (thank you Adoni, Olu & Katy!) and human need (bless you J, H & J as you waited, in pain, some distressing).

I was able to offer H a red, felt heart leftover in my pocket from a recent act of worship. I felt an affinity, she being the same age as my eldest daughter, and traumatised by her cut. My gift a simple symbol of the love that surrounded her – mum & sister… medical staff… the Divine healer. “You will be my witnesses…” commanded Jesus. So praying is ACTING, “on earth as it is in heaven”. 

rev’d david

If you wish to contribute to the fundraising - https://www.justgiving.com/team/david-harknett-2025