Hey, y’all!
Over the years, so many people have asked me why I race. The answer always turns into a more convoluted stream of random musings on my racing than a simple, straightforward answer. However, I do believe that my team’s creed sums up the faith aspect that fuels me through training and racing.
I race for team FCA Endurance; a group of dedicated athletes of all levels who love Jesus, and love racing. From our website (fcaendurance.com):
The Competitor’s Creed
I am a Christian first and last.
I am created in the likeness of God Almighty to bring Him glory.
I am a member of Team Jesus Christ.
I wear the colors of the cross.
I am a Competitor now and forever.
I am made to strive, to strain, to stretch
and to succeed in the arena of competition.
I am a Christian Competitor
I face my challenger and as such, with the face of Christ.
I do not trust in myself.
I do not boast in my abilities or believe in my own strength.
I rely solely on the power of God.
I compete for the pleasure of my Heavenly Father,
the honor of Christ and the reputation of the Holy Spirit.
My attitude on and off the field is above reproach – my conduct beyond criticism.
Whether I am preparing, practicing or playing;
I submit to God’s authority and those He has put over me.
I respect my coaches, officials, teammates and competitors
out of respect for the Lord.
My body is the temple of Jesus Christ
I protect it from within and without.
Nothing enters my body that does not honor the Living God.
My sweat is an offering to my Master.
My soreness is a sacrifice to my Savior.
I give my all – all of the time.
I do not give up. I do not give in.
I do not give out. I am the Lord’s warrior –
a competitor by conviction and a disciple of determination.
I am confident beyond reason because my confidence lies in Christ.
The results of my efforts must result in His glory.
LET THE COMPETITION BEGIN.
LET THE GLORY BE GOD’S.
– See more at: http://fcaendurance.com/the-competitors-creed#sthash.qCKJgN9M.dpuf
Racing just isn’t about pushing yourself to gain medals, acceptance, or anything else that a lot of people are seeking through endurance sports. It’s about pushing yourself toward a greater goal–the goal of keeping your body (which is the Lord’s temple) holy, pure, and healthy for His glory.
If we don’t take care of ourselves, how can we take care of others? It is truly my goal to honor The Lord through my racing and training in order to inspire others that there is something greater out there than just ourselves.
So, in a nutshell, I race to tell people about Jesus, and the amazing things He has done for me in my life. I pray we all find strength and hope in the One who gave it all for us.
Shalom.
Ashley
Give Change a Tri 