Fr. Ryan Lerner, Chaplain
Whether it was a good race or a bad race, whether you hit a PR or you tank, or just barely make it by, there’s nothing like the beautiful, freeing simplicity of finishing the race. There is a thrill in crossing the finish line, at long last. I tried to convey that feeling in the extended ROF on finishing the Boston Marathon this last October.
Recently, I found myself thinking of crossing that finish line and all that it took—the preparation, the racing thoughts, the disappointments, the pain, the setbacks, the prayers, the support and of family and friends here and in heaven. I had finished and learned so much. And despite the pain and setbacks of that marathon, it was worth it—for me and for all those who helped get me there. It was a moment to give glory to God.
We are just a couple of days away from officially celebrating that beautiful, freeing moment when the Class of 2022 graduates. Soon, reality will sink in and wash over them, taking root deep in their souls – that they have indeed finished their time at Yale. We join them in giving thanks for all that transpired throughout that race – the glorious moments as well as the painful ones, the lessons learned and all those who played a part in getting them through to the finish line. We give glory to God knowing that – YES – it was all worth it. At the same time, we know that although they have finished this race, there is still a lot more running to be done in the ultra-marathon of life on this side of eternity.
Sarah Woodford, who edits these weekly reflections with me, mentioned to me this week that one of our students, when reflecting on their time at Yale and at STM, said that “the delight was in running the race.” Amen. That experience of delight comes from something much greater, much deeper, than simply finishing the race. It comes from a place of love that doesn’t go away after crossing a finish line. As Jesus prays in today’s gospel: “Remain in my love…so that my joy might be in you…and your joy might be complete.” Class of 2022, may you remain in Christ’s love. It is my hope that you experience God’s joy in you, and that you continue to delight in running the race – wherever you go, whatever you do, now and forever.
This is the last Running on Faith for the 2021-2022 school year. We shall return to your inboxes in the fall. May your summer be full of lots of movement and wonderful runs.
