Thanks to each of you who made this year’s Marathon a great success for The National Memorial, First Church, and the Kingdom of God! We were literally the “hands and feet” of Jesus this past weekend, as we opened our hearts and doors to the people of Oklahoma City and “the world!” This year broke all records for runners with over 19,600 participants representing all 50 states and 7 countries! From all reports we served over 3,600 people breakfast (that’s a lot of pancakes, and gallons of coffee, milk and juice too!). I can’t imagine what the 10th Anniversary Marathon will look like next year! It will most certainly be bigger and better!

I begin our Worship Team meetings on Mondays with the question, “Where did you see God in worship?” As we reviewed Saturday night’s “Blessing of The Shoes” Marathon Worship Service, we were again humbled by our guests who joined us for worship. If you were present with us, you know we asked everyone to take off their shoes and bring them to the altar (thanks for allowing me to stretch some of you out of your comfort zone!). I wanted us all to experience the blessing of standing on Holy Ground and remind us we are all connected to each other and The National Memorial – whether we were running or not.

It was very moving to see people come and place shoes of all sizes and styles at the altar and then begin to stand as we sang “Holy Ground.” I invited all the runners back at the close of the message and Kirk offered a prayer of blessing over all the shoes. We invited any to stay who would like to be anointed with oil (I’ve been told most every runner did!). As we anointed each, we said “Run for the Pleasure of the Lord Jesus Christ and in memory of those who died in the Name of The Father, and The Son and The Holy Spirit.” It was a powerful moment for all. I know many of you have your own stories to share.
Thanks again for all the time and effort so many of you invested in our Second Wind Marathon Outreach this year! I believe our Lord was honored! “Those who honor me I will honor,” I Samuel 2:30. (That’s the very scripture Olympic runner, Eric Liddell, carried with him as he broke the world’s record in the 1924 Olympics!) Thanks for ALL you do to Honor God in His House and in the OKC Metro! First Church is a great place to be!

Yours in Christ's love,
Mark McAdow