Week 17 - Survivor Tree Sunrise Service

We wondered how church would fit in this week since John was volunteering at the OKC Memorial Marathon and I was participating (only in the 5K walk just FYI—I will never be able to run a marathon!). When I saw the “Sunrise Service at the Survivor Tree” on the schedule, I knew that was where we should go. Sunrise was a bit of a false advertisement. It was very dark, and very cold, and very windy. We missed the first few minutes due to being trapped at the wonderful train on 10th Street for at least 10 minutes. It was frustrating and I began to wonder if this was a good idea. We walked up to the Survivor Tree at about the middle of the message and just stood with the others who had gathered thinking “I should not have worn shorts! I have seen something from God every week wherever we’ve attended and expected to see something here too. But I think I saw God more in the run/walk than the service. The prayer, singing and message were moving and solemn. It was a solemn occasion. However, the run was “inspiring.” People from all ages, races, social status and dare I say athletic abilities were there. They were standing and waiting huddled together in the cold and the wind both for a common purpose and some very likely a personal purpose. And we paid money to do this! Enthusiasm was high, lively conversation was everywhere and everyone felt somehow connected. No one cared what religion you were, what church you attended or anything about your personal life. Everyone was there for one reason: to remember those who were killed, those who survived, and those changed forever. Life is a marathon of sorts. Some people walk the short distance. Some people do it “relay style” with the help of friends. Some are strong and have great endurance to run the entire distance. We can be united under one common purpose regardless of our differences. Wouldn’t it be nice if we could carry that same spirit of unity into our life of faith, united only under the common purpose of Jesus Christ.