Portland Marathon

Well, it has taken this long for me to write about the Portland Marathon--partially because I'm still in pain! I did everything wrong at this one and broke all the rules. The first mistake I made was not eating...at all (Yes, all you runners can cringe!). After that, I warmed in the first couple miles and then began a sort of "recon shuffle" jog. I ended up spying a young runner and decided to use him as a pacer (I know, I know, HUGE difference between 18 or 19 and 45!). We were doing good, I was following him for about 8 miles when the kid threw it into warp speed (he was just warming up...).

Then, this being Portland, it started raining. I ended slipping on a manhole cover (I didn't know they got slippery. Then the blisters started showing up. Ouch.

I know this sounds like a nightmare--and as I sit here nursing my poor abused muscles (still!) and the blisters that cover almost all of my right heel (and the rest of the foot)--I got to tell ya: I had a blast! The sense of accomplishment, especially in light of what doctors had once told me about my back (that I would never be able to run again--I would limp throught life--I would never kick again) and I once again have to praise God that He is the Ultimate Healer. He just loves to heal and restore His children!

I would love to hear from some of you about how God has done the same for you. Well, I am leaving for Montana later so I have to complete my prep for that trip. I pray that the Lord blesses you this week.
In His Grace,
Mark

Prayer Requests

I have a prayer request for all of you. Karman and June Blake, and I will be returning to the Flathead Indian Reservation to speak at a service there on the 12th of October. We plan to be speaking to the elders there about the importance of restoration minstries in the church. I ask that you pray for our safety in travel and also that the hearts of the people would be touched by what God has called us to share.
Thanks
In His Grace,
Mark

Congratulations to the Pure Desire Ministries International team!

They are finally in their new office! As many of you know this ministry was founded by Dr. Ted Roberts, former Senior Pastor of East Hill church in Gresham, Oregon. This ministry is on the cutting edge of dealing with the bondage of sexual addiction. The new address is P.O. Box 2310 in Gresham, Or, 97030. The website is Puredesire.org. Keep up the good work team!
In His Grace,
Mark