Pom Poms and Paul.

I was studying for the Wednesday Night Teen lesson titled The Amazing Race. Isn't this race we are running amazing! The teens needed a lesson on encouragement because let's face it, everyone, every now and again (ok, MWF, for me, I won't lie!) needs a cheerleader.  Once the lesson was penned, I applied it to my race.  We need cheer.  Paul was THE Cheer Captain I tell you. NCA girls got nothin' on him. He cheered on Timothy and cheered on Timothy.  Keep on keeping on Timmy! Get it done! You got this! God's got you. In the dark moments from dark places, Paul cheered. It wasn't like he was sitting on some park bench enjoying the view, texting Tim, while sipping from his favorite Red Straw.  He had crises.  He had responsibilities; and all the while he was running too.  BUT HE CHEERED. Let's face it, it's not like I have shed any blood in this race like my Creator. I cry out and believe the race is over when my favorite shirt is on clearance and in every size except mine!  (Isn't that annoying!) I merely, for a second, ok, maybe several minutes, remove my eyes from the Creator and trip over my own two sinful feet. BAM. Pavement. And yes, there always seem to be witnesses. (You know the ones, NOT CHEERING!!!)  It seems like I never lick the dirt in the privacy of my own track.  But then I hear, Jenny, you got this! Keep on keeping on! Get it done!  You got this!  God's got you. It's my race friends. The team. Cheering. Encouraging. Supporting. Picking out the pieces of gravel from my nostril, helping me wipe off my behind - you get the point, I don't fall graceful folks.  So, I guess all in all I am glad I don't lick the dirt on a track alone.  Who would be physically there to cheer?  You see, we ALL need cheerleaders. And cheerleaders NEED cheer captains. Good ole' Tim, he had the best, Captain Paul of God's Cheer Team. In your race, who is your cheerleader(s) and who is their cheer captain?  Take a moment today to review your race and those that have cheered you along this far. The race is amazing. Amazingly hard, fast, rocky, curvy, and steep, but bigger and louder are those cheerleaders urging you to "keep on keeping on". As you pass by your cheering section, recognize the faces, pray for their continued support and be thankful for their Fight Song!