Monday, November 22, 2010
Food For Thought By Randy Paar
Proverbs 23:21
For the drunkard and the glutton will come to poverty, and slumber will clothe them with rags.
I want you to think about this verse. If you gorge yourself at the table to celebrate Thanksgiving, and Christmas, and all the holiday parties that exist, your fitness and mental state will come to poverty. Think how you feel after slamming mega calories. I equate it to a food hangover. You don't think clearly, nor is your training up to par. I know I'd much rather curl up on the couch, watch some football, and have another turkey sandwich.
Those wicked cool MsM tri uniforms that fit your body like a painted on skin, now fits like the rags described in the above biblical verse.
We need to constantly remind ourselves that our great Lord blessed all of us with these amazing bodies, so we can go and shout out to everyone, "Hey, look how the Lord blessed me!!!!" Remember, we ought to be doing this to glorify Him, and not to feed our own vanity.
The last time I checked Christmas was to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ. Let us celebrate this amazing day with our families and friends, but show the same self control in eating, as we do during the race season. Be an example for others to follow. Now, there is nothing wrong with having a small piece of pie for dessert, but remember the big picture here.
Before going to those parties, or sitting down for a huge dinner, make sure to drink some water, have a handful of almonds, allow that to settle in before dinner. Show the same discipline at the table, as you do in all the other parts of your life.
This is a time to celebrate Christ, and everything that we have to be thankful for!!!
Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays everyone!!!
RP
Randy Paar is the owner of RPMultisport and can be reached at randy@rpmultisport.com. Randy is also a USAT Coach Level 1, USA Cycling Coach Level 3 and FIST Certified Bike Fitter.
Sunday, October 17, 2010
Nutrition 101 By Randy Paar
As a triathlon coach, and former bodybuilder/weightlifter, nutrition has always been a great interest of mine.
I find it amazing how our Lord has blessed us with the most amazing gadget out there: ourselves!!
We spend all kinds of money on go faster carbon fiber frames, space age aero helmets, sleek form fitting skinsuits, fancy race wheels, carbon cages, powermeters.....and the list goes on. I even see they have carbon fiber swim goggles? For real.......
We spend hours cleaning and polishing our fancy space age steeds, right? So, answer me this: WHY DO SO MANY PEOPLE SKIMP ON THEIR NUTRITION??
I love the excuses: I don't have time, I don't know how to cook, my wife doesn't like it, my kids won't eat it, my dog won't eat it!!! C'mon on!!
What wife doesn't love it when their man cooks for them? And kids, shoot, they don't know what they like until they are brainwashed by McDonalds, Red Bull, Burger King, and all of the other processed foods (I use that term loosely) that are constantly shoved at them. It's our job to ensure that we teach them what is really good.
A nearly perfect and easy day of eating:
Breakfast: 1 cup of organic rolled oats with sliced berries, 2 scrambled eggs
Snack-handful of raw almonds, piece of fruit
Lunch-2 cups of brown rice or Quinoa, 4 oz. of protein source, side of fresh sliced fruit and/or veggies
Snack/Preworkout-1 english muffin w/banana & nutbutter
Postworkout/Dinner-5 oz. protein source, 1 sweet potato, large spinach salad w/veggies
There you have it, delicious and nutritious!!
A rule to live by: If it grows in the ground, or you can pick it off a tree-eat it. If you buy it from the center isle of the grocery store, you're probably better off consuming the packaging that it came in.
Feed your body and mind with quality foods and nutrients, so we can be strong role models for all. We've all been blessed to do this sport, to spread the word of our God. We should present a positive and healthy image.
See, and I bet you thought this was going to be another "cookie cutter" nutrition program with specific formulas. I can bore you to tears with one if you like, but I hope this one reaches out to you.
Have a blessed and safe day!
Randy Paar is the owner of RPMultisport and can be reached at randy@rpmultisport.com. Randy is also a USAT Coach Level 1, USA Cycling Coach Level 3 and FIST Certified Bike Fitter.
I find it amazing how our Lord has blessed us with the most amazing gadget out there: ourselves!!
We spend all kinds of money on go faster carbon fiber frames, space age aero helmets, sleek form fitting skinsuits, fancy race wheels, carbon cages, powermeters.....and the list goes on. I even see they have carbon fiber swim goggles? For real.......
We spend hours cleaning and polishing our fancy space age steeds, right? So, answer me this: WHY DO SO MANY PEOPLE SKIMP ON THEIR NUTRITION??
I love the excuses: I don't have time, I don't know how to cook, my wife doesn't like it, my kids won't eat it, my dog won't eat it!!! C'mon on!!
What wife doesn't love it when their man cooks for them? And kids, shoot, they don't know what they like until they are brainwashed by McDonalds, Red Bull, Burger King, and all of the other processed foods (I use that term loosely) that are constantly shoved at them. It's our job to ensure that we teach them what is really good.
A nearly perfect and easy day of eating:
Breakfast: 1 cup of organic rolled oats with sliced berries, 2 scrambled eggs
Snack-handful of raw almonds, piece of fruit
Lunch-2 cups of brown rice or Quinoa, 4 oz. of protein source, side of fresh sliced fruit and/or veggies
Snack/Preworkout-1 english muffin w/banana & nutbutter
Postworkout/Dinner-5 oz. protein source, 1 sweet potato, large spinach salad w/veggies
There you have it, delicious and nutritious!!
A rule to live by: If it grows in the ground, or you can pick it off a tree-eat it. If you buy it from the center isle of the grocery store, you're probably better off consuming the packaging that it came in.
Feed your body and mind with quality foods and nutrients, so we can be strong role models for all. We've all been blessed to do this sport, to spread the word of our God. We should present a positive and healthy image.
See, and I bet you thought this was going to be another "cookie cutter" nutrition program with specific formulas. I can bore you to tears with one if you like, but I hope this one reaches out to you.
Have a blessed and safe day!
Randy Paar is the owner of RPMultisport and can be reached at randy@rpmultisport.com. Randy is also a USAT Coach Level 1, USA Cycling Coach Level 3 and FIST Certified Bike Fitter.
The Best of NING, Highlights by Dan Matheson
John Adams announced the launch of the MsM Chaplaincy program. Find out more about the chaplain for your region. http://multisportministries.ning.com/forum/topics/msm-chaplains-welcome
Damone Brown let us all know about a must see short film: http://multisportministries.ning.com/forum/topics/a-must-see-short-film
A topic that we all deal with daily and need to rely upon our brothers for support is temptation http://multisportministries.ning.com/forum/topics/temptation-1
If you don’t have something that hits your inbox each day to think about first thing try this recommendation from Brandon Cox: http://multisportministries.ning.com/forum/topics/prayfit-1
One thing that is different for everyone and there appear to be a thousand answers for is what to do with your race day nutrition. We all know what works for us or have questions so ask/answer here: http://multisportministries.ning.com/forum/topics/703-nutrition-strategies
Triathlon is an expensive sport and we all need to save a buck getting there on airfares, shipping or otherwise, so if you have any hints on how to save $$$ please let the rest of us know here: http://multisportministries.ning.com/forum/topics/traveling-to-tris
It is very easy to get distracted each day and forget to ask why are we here? What do I need to do? Our sport is very similar as we ask – why am I racing? What do I need to do to improve? Trevor Sultz stumbled across the following quote which got him thinking "The Ironman has a way of finding a weakness. It has a way of weeding out the pretenders from the contenders...". What do you think? http://multisportministries.ning.com/profiles/blogs/the-kingdom
We all struggle with inspiration every day and strive to inspire the next generation. But sometimes they can show us the way as John Tidball let us know: http://multisportministries.ning.com/profiles/blogs/tunkhannock-junior-high-cross
Stepping out and leading others is tough so please pray for Kenneth Ramsay and his wife as they do what can be so hard: http://multisportministries.ning.com/profiles/blogs/bible-class
Lap, after lap, after lap, after lap, we could go on….but how do you keep count: http://multisportministries.ning.com/profiles/blogs/using-prayer-to-count-laps
Finally, one our board members, Scott Bishop reminds us of what is important – fellowship and standing together for two are stronger than one. We can all be there to lift each other up and remind ourselves of the colours we wear: http://multisportministries.ning.com/profiles/blogs/thank-you-lord
Damone Brown let us all know about a must see short film: http://multisportministries.ning.com/forum/topics/a-must-see-short-film
A topic that we all deal with daily and need to rely upon our brothers for support is temptation http://multisportministries.ning.com/forum/topics/temptation-1
If you don’t have something that hits your inbox each day to think about first thing try this recommendation from Brandon Cox: http://multisportministries.ning.com/forum/topics/prayfit-1
One thing that is different for everyone and there appear to be a thousand answers for is what to do with your race day nutrition. We all know what works for us or have questions so ask/answer here: http://multisportministries.ning.com/forum/topics/703-nutrition-strategies
Triathlon is an expensive sport and we all need to save a buck getting there on airfares, shipping or otherwise, so if you have any hints on how to save $$$ please let the rest of us know here: http://multisportministries.ning.com/forum/topics/traveling-to-tris
It is very easy to get distracted each day and forget to ask why are we here? What do I need to do? Our sport is very similar as we ask – why am I racing? What do I need to do to improve? Trevor Sultz stumbled across the following quote which got him thinking "The Ironman has a way of finding a weakness. It has a way of weeding out the pretenders from the contenders...". What do you think? http://multisportministries.ning.com/profiles/blogs/the-kingdom
We all struggle with inspiration every day and strive to inspire the next generation. But sometimes they can show us the way as John Tidball let us know: http://multisportministries.ning.com/profiles/blogs/tunkhannock-junior-high-cross
Stepping out and leading others is tough so please pray for Kenneth Ramsay and his wife as they do what can be so hard: http://multisportministries.ning.com/profiles/blogs/bible-class
Lap, after lap, after lap, after lap, we could go on….but how do you keep count: http://multisportministries.ning.com/profiles/blogs/using-prayer-to-count-laps
Finally, one our board members, Scott Bishop reminds us of what is important – fellowship and standing together for two are stronger than one. We can all be there to lift each other up and remind ourselves of the colours we wear: http://multisportministries.ning.com/profiles/blogs/thank-you-lord
Tip From MsM Pro Ryan Borger
The Off Season...
Since it's nearing the off-season, or better said non-racing months, it's a good time to take a break from the strict training schedules some of us tend to become slaves to, and take a short mental and physical break. If you're someone who has trained consistently and worked hard this season, you're probably ready for a break. Following you're last race of the season, I recommend taking a week or two off of training, or at least planned workouts, and follow this time with one or two weeks of training just by how you feel, doing what you want to (unless that means doing nothing at all, or lifting weights in the form of modified arm curls- AKA lifting cookies, donuts, or cups of egg-nog into the mouth). It's also a good time to mix in some other types of workouts and cross-training, such as nordic skiing, snowshoeing, rowing, hiking, etc, because a few months down the road you'll likely need a mental break, and physical rest, if you didn't take one at the end of the season.
It's important to adjust our training throughout the year, mixing up workout types, volumes, and intensities, in order to benefit the most. Build in training phases throughout the year, with the off-season months at lower training intensities, and focus on getting stronger as opposed to simply lighter and fitter. When getting back into the routine, the winter months are a great time build strength without burning yourself out with high intensity workouts. If you're a weaker cyclist, it's a great time to focus on improving cycling strength. Even though the heart rate does not need to be as high as our intense workouts in the middle of the racing months, we can still become a better cyclist. How? By building muscular strength. At least once a week during the winter, mix in a low cadence workout, pushing your biggest gear. Keeping cycling cadence around 55-60 RPM for 45 minutes to an hour, while pushing a bigger gear than you're used to, is an example of an affective way to build cycling specific leg strength.
Ryan Borger is a professional triathlete who lives and trains in Denver CO. Email Ryan with questions at ryanborger@gmail.com
Since it's nearing the off-season, or better said non-racing months, it's a good time to take a break from the strict training schedules some of us tend to become slaves to, and take a short mental and physical break. If you're someone who has trained consistently and worked hard this season, you're probably ready for a break. Following you're last race of the season, I recommend taking a week or two off of training, or at least planned workouts, and follow this time with one or two weeks of training just by how you feel, doing what you want to (unless that means doing nothing at all, or lifting weights in the form of modified arm curls- AKA lifting cookies, donuts, or cups of egg-nog into the mouth). It's also a good time to mix in some other types of workouts and cross-training, such as nordic skiing, snowshoeing, rowing, hiking, etc, because a few months down the road you'll likely need a mental break, and physical rest, if you didn't take one at the end of the season.
It's important to adjust our training throughout the year, mixing up workout types, volumes, and intensities, in order to benefit the most. Build in training phases throughout the year, with the off-season months at lower training intensities, and focus on getting stronger as opposed to simply lighter and fitter. When getting back into the routine, the winter months are a great time build strength without burning yourself out with high intensity workouts. If you're a weaker cyclist, it's a great time to focus on improving cycling strength. Even though the heart rate does not need to be as high as our intense workouts in the middle of the racing months, we can still become a better cyclist. How? By building muscular strength. At least once a week during the winter, mix in a low cadence workout, pushing your biggest gear. Keeping cycling cadence around 55-60 RPM for 45 minutes to an hour, while pushing a bigger gear than you're used to, is an example of an affective way to build cycling specific leg strength.
Ryan Borger is a professional triathlete who lives and trains in Denver CO. Email Ryan with questions at ryanborger@gmail.com
Tuesday, September 21, 2010
Race Report: REV 3 -By John Adams
What an incredible day! First off Lake Erie was 3-5ft waves at the Saturday training swim! The wind shifted overnight and calmed the water down. Had prayer with Rev3's owner the night before for good weather and a good race. Had the opportunity to pray for numerous folks before race day as well. Rev3 also did an interview with me and played it on the jumbotron numerous times during the race. I haven't seen it yet but those who did say it came out very well. I'll post it when I get it. MsM got great press! We had a table set up and a number of folks came by.
They had me open the event with prayer and I did so in my MsM jacket. I have video of that as well. I didn't have a good swim as my calves were trying to cramp! Still finished in 1:51. Bike was uneventful but very windy! I passed numerous folks who had flats and such but everyone seemed to be OK. I felt the Lord impress me that ministry would take place during the run. I forgot about that until later. Our church had about 50 volunteers who were all over the course and gave tons of encouragement. On the run, which I wasn't sure if I could do it, I hooked up with a guy I met the day before. He was going to do a moderate pace so I decided to hang with him which I did the entire first 12.1 loop. On the way out on the 2nd loop, he started feeling badly and threw up fairly badly, very badly, in fact. I stuck around as people kept passing us. We had intended to to finish in 4:30 and I was watching my respectable finish diminish before my eyes. He sat down and I sat beside him. I really wanted to leave and get on with my run and finish 12 hrs or so. I asked him if I could pray for him. He agreed so I simply laid my hand on his shoulder and prayed a simple prayer. As I continued to see people pass, I finally realized that I needed to help this guy finish so I decided to stick with him to the finish. In about another 15-20 min he started to feel better. The aid station wanted to call the Med tent people but he said no to that. In about another 10 min or so we were on our way walking. We walked most the 2nd loop and had great conversation about God spiritual things, family, racing etc. We ran a little and wanted to finish inside 15hrs. I finished in 14:49. So I easily passed up my third 4th place finish and probably a podium finish at 3rd. However, people are more important than medals and plaques. My longest pre-race run was 14 mi. My longest pre-race ride was 71 mi and I had been swimming 1.5-2.0mi per workout. I know that's crazy, but it was pretty much what I could do. A man in my church posted a 25' banner with Phil. 4:13 along the run course which EVERYONE ran by! I stuck with David until we crossed the finish line. He made me go first and his wife had tears in her eyes as she came up to me and hugged me! My entire family and MANY church members were there to welcome me at the finish. It was awesome! Heather Gollnick had me share my story at the awards breakfast and also had me pray there as well.
However, probably the best story was one of MsM's Michigan members, who I don't remember his name, was out on the race course asking God to show him why he was here. He came upon a a guy who broke some spokes on his wheel who was really discouraged that his year of training was over and he couldn't finish the race. The MsM member told him that he had finished 11 IM races and could stand to not finish this one. He then took his wheel off his bike and put it on the guys bike who then went on to finish. That story was told over the PA system in transition and also at the award breakfast. Shawn, the announcer almost couldn't finish telling it because he was so broken up and touched that someone would do that. He mentioned that the guy was from MsM!
This is the short version, but we have excellent genuine relationships in the Rev3 organization as its owners are committed to the Lord and to family. They are a great organization to get behind and promote. They have our values.
Also...Ohio's MsM team Captain, Dean Ensey, took 3rd in the 55-59 age group (I took 5th in this group) and Ohio's MsM team Chaplain, Randy Lehrer took 1st in the Aqua-Bike. Great Day for Multisport MINISTRIES, more importantly..Christ.
John
They had me open the event with prayer and I did so in my MsM jacket. I have video of that as well. I didn't have a good swim as my calves were trying to cramp! Still finished in 1:51. Bike was uneventful but very windy! I passed numerous folks who had flats and such but everyone seemed to be OK. I felt the Lord impress me that ministry would take place during the run. I forgot about that until later. Our church had about 50 volunteers who were all over the course and gave tons of encouragement. On the run, which I wasn't sure if I could do it, I hooked up with a guy I met the day before. He was going to do a moderate pace so I decided to hang with him which I did the entire first 12.1 loop. On the way out on the 2nd loop, he started feeling badly and threw up fairly badly, very badly, in fact. I stuck around as people kept passing us. We had intended to to finish in 4:30 and I was watching my respectable finish diminish before my eyes. He sat down and I sat beside him. I really wanted to leave and get on with my run and finish 12 hrs or so. I asked him if I could pray for him. He agreed so I simply laid my hand on his shoulder and prayed a simple prayer. As I continued to see people pass, I finally realized that I needed to help this guy finish so I decided to stick with him to the finish. In about another 15-20 min he started to feel better. The aid station wanted to call the Med tent people but he said no to that. In about another 10 min or so we were on our way walking. We walked most the 2nd loop and had great conversation about God spiritual things, family, racing etc. We ran a little and wanted to finish inside 15hrs. I finished in 14:49. So I easily passed up my third 4th place finish and probably a podium finish at 3rd. However, people are more important than medals and plaques. My longest pre-race run was 14 mi. My longest pre-race ride was 71 mi and I had been swimming 1.5-2.0mi per workout. I know that's crazy, but it was pretty much what I could do. A man in my church posted a 25' banner with Phil. 4:13 along the run course which EVERYONE ran by! I stuck with David until we crossed the finish line. He made me go first and his wife had tears in her eyes as she came up to me and hugged me! My entire family and MANY church members were there to welcome me at the finish. It was awesome! Heather Gollnick had me share my story at the awards breakfast and also had me pray there as well.
However, probably the best story was one of MsM's Michigan members, who I don't remember his name, was out on the race course asking God to show him why he was here. He came upon a a guy who broke some spokes on his wheel who was really discouraged that his year of training was over and he couldn't finish the race. The MsM member told him that he had finished 11 IM races and could stand to not finish this one. He then took his wheel off his bike and put it on the guys bike who then went on to finish. That story was told over the PA system in transition and also at the award breakfast. Shawn, the announcer almost couldn't finish telling it because he was so broken up and touched that someone would do that. He mentioned that the guy was from MsM!
This is the short version, but we have excellent genuine relationships in the Rev3 organization as its owners are committed to the Lord and to family. They are a great organization to get behind and promote. They have our values.
Also...Ohio's MsM team Captain, Dean Ensey, took 3rd in the 55-59 age group (I took 5th in this group) and Ohio's MsM team Chaplain, Randy Lehrer took 1st in the Aqua-Bike. Great Day for Multisport MINISTRIES, more importantly..Christ.
John
Monday, August 23, 2010
"By Endurance We Conquer" -Enduring the Long Race one step at a time. -By Jason Prince
In 1914, a British explorer named Ernest Shackleton led an unsuccessful attempt to cross Antarctica, where his 27-man crew became stranded for 20 months.
This incredible story is one of relentless drive and perseverance in the face of overwhelming odds, and of one man’s extraordinary leadership skills and unmatched discipline.
After tasting success from previous leading the “British Antarctic Expedition,” Shackleton began to plan another expedition. He organized what would be the first team to cross the Antarctic continent—a 1,800-mile journey across the unknown. During the trip, team members also planned to make magnetic observations and study ice formations and mountains.
Under the British flag, the expedition was called the “Imperial Trans-Antarctic Expedition,” and would be led by Shackleton. He named the ship the Endurance, inspired by his family’s motto, “By endurance we conquer.”
Just as Shackleton and the crew were about to set sail, World War I broke out between Britain and Germany. Showing tremendous loyalty to his country, Shackleton questioned whether the expedition was still worthwhile.
Shackleton sent a telegram to the Admiralty and explained to his crew, “First let me say that if war is declared, any man who wishes to leave the expedition to serve his country is free to do so. It is clear to me where our first duty lies, and this morning I telegraphed the First Lord of the Admiralty and put our ship, and every one of us, at his disposal. We now await his decision. I hope you will forgive me, but I particularly asked that if he saw fit to employ us in the service of our country, that might he allow us to stay together, perhaps aboard a destroyer. I did this because I can honestly think of no finer group of men with whom to serve.”
Shackleton received a one-word reply: “Proceed.”
Have you ever been in the middle of race praying to God for strength and received a clear message from him to "Proceed"? It may be subtle such as leg cramps going away, a renewed strength in the last 800 meters, or a fellow competitor coming up behind you and saying "Hey, whats Multisport Ministries all about?"
The story goes on...
The first few hundred miles were rough, but the ship made it successfully through the ice. After continuing on, the Antarctic summer soon ended and the winter months set in. The ship began to run into heavier ice.Shackleton soon realized they were stranded. Cracks in the ice appeared, but, in the end, attempts to free the ship were unsuccessful. The crew prepared for the long, cold winter, and turned the ship into a winter station. The men determined to wait out the winter in hopes that the coming spring would melt the ice around the ship and free it.
Shackleton remained optimistic and, despite the circumstances, the explorers stayed cheerful and busy. They cut out large blocks of ice and built igloos around the ship for themselves and the dogs. They survived on rations and seals that came within reach of their temporary camp. Temperatures were frigid, sometimes dipping down to less than –20 degrees Fahrenheit. But with dogsled races, and frequent games of hockey and football, they kept their spirits high.
You've heard the saying, "When you get lemons, make lemonade." Well that's exactly what Shackleton did. Endurance through hard times requires adaptation to the new environments God has led you. Feel like your stuck on a block of ice? Make an igloo and play hockey. Surround yourself with men who know how to endure through hard times, and have the mental will power to help you through.
Changing Course
In the beginning of 1915, the team was still 250 miles from Paulet Island and too far east of it. Shackleton wrote, “After a year’s incessant battle with the ice, we had returned…to almost identically the same latitude that we had left with such high hopes and aspirations twelve months previously; but under what different conditions now! Our ship crushed and lost, and we ourselves drifting on a piece of ice at the mercy of the winds.”
Gods "course" is not always clear, and we may find ourselves "Drifting on a piece of ice at the mercy of the winds." We may also find ourselves in the exact same location we have been for months. I know i have been there, should we give up? It must be that God wants to teach us something in that spot!
Shackleton knew the only hope for survival was if a few men journeyed to find a rescue ship. Shackleton wrote, “A boat journey in search of relief was necessary and must not be delayed.” He discussed with a few of his top men the prospect of making it to South Georgia before another winter approached; the decision was soon made. The plan was to cross the more than 800 miles of sub-Antarctic Ocean to the possibility of help at South Georgia.
After preparing the boat, Shackleton, along with five others, set sail from Elehpant Island. The voyage was one of constant discomfort and narrow quarters. Shackleton recalled, “We fought the seas and the winds and at the same time had a daily struggle to keep ourselves alive. At times we were in dire peril.” Days went by and the iceberg of Elephant Island gradually shrank into the distance.
The men pushed on through the driving winds and ferocious waters of the Arctic Sea. The explorers finally landed on the southern coast of South Georgia. But the whaling station was on the opposite side of the island. “We were still 150 miles away from Stromness whaling-station by sea. The alternative was to attempt the crossing of the island…Over on Elephant Island twenty-two men were waiting for the relief that we alone could secure for them. Their plight was worse than ours. We must push on somehow.”
Rescue!
They soon made plans to cross over the mountain range to the other side of the island. The men removed screws from the boat to use in their boots for traction to climb the treacherous ice slopes. They crossed the island to the whaling station after more than a day’s journey.
After descending the mountains, they heard the distinct sound of a steam-whistle. Shackleton wrote, “Never had any one of us heard sweeter music. It was the first sound created by outside human agency that had come to our ears since we left…That whistle told us that men were living near, that ships were ready, and that within a few hours we should be on our way back to Elephant Island to the rescue of the men waiting there…It was a moment hard to describe. Pain and ache, boat journeys, marches, hunger and fatigue seemed to belong to the limbo of forgotten things, and there remained only the perfect contentment that comes of work accomplished.”
The whalers sent a ship to the other side of the island to pick up the remaining men there, then continued on to rescue the 22 others on Elephant Island.
In the end, the expedition lasted two years. All 27 of the men survived! When one of the survivors was asked how they had made it, he answered with one word: “Shackleton.”
I want to insert the name "JESUS" right there. Its seems to fit better. If you re-read the story and instead of saying "Shackleton" you say "Jesus", the story becomes one that is very familiar to many of us.
“Endure unto the End”
What lessons can we learn from this incredible story of survival? Shackleton’s example of extraordinary leadership and perseverance has many applications for those striving to live God’s Way.
Those growing up in God’s Church face an extremely difficult age, bombarded every day at school, work or home by the pulls of this world. You may feel intense pressure to give in to the ways of this world. But if you are striving to please God, you must not give in.
Although Proverbs 13:15 states that “the way of transgressors is hard,” living according to God’s laws and principles is not easy either. Overcoming this world is hard work, and takes longsuffering, patience and endurance. Yet it is possible, and yields incredible blessings if one stays the course and refuses to give in—no matter the cost.
Those living God’s Way must endure trials. They must overcome many obstacles in their lives. Notice Matthew 24: “But he that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved” (vs. 13). Here, endurance is directly tied to receiving salvation. (Also see Mark 4:17 and James 5:11.) The Greek word for endure means to “remain…bear (trials)…have fortitude…persevere, abide, take patiently, suffer.”
Endurance is a godly characteristic of which we should all strive to have more. In fact, God never quits. And once we have decided to live His Way, neither can we. We must stay the course! When you feel like caving in, or giving up, consider Shackleton’s story and how he overcame against all odds. If we persevere, God promises our reward will be great (Rev. 21:7)!
This incredible story is one of relentless drive and perseverance in the face of overwhelming odds, and of one man’s extraordinary leadership skills and unmatched discipline.
After tasting success from previous leading the “British Antarctic Expedition,” Shackleton began to plan another expedition. He organized what would be the first team to cross the Antarctic continent—a 1,800-mile journey across the unknown. During the trip, team members also planned to make magnetic observations and study ice formations and mountains.
Under the British flag, the expedition was called the “Imperial Trans-Antarctic Expedition,” and would be led by Shackleton. He named the ship the Endurance, inspired by his family’s motto, “By endurance we conquer.”
Just as Shackleton and the crew were about to set sail, World War I broke out between Britain and Germany. Showing tremendous loyalty to his country, Shackleton questioned whether the expedition was still worthwhile.
Shackleton sent a telegram to the Admiralty and explained to his crew, “First let me say that if war is declared, any man who wishes to leave the expedition to serve his country is free to do so. It is clear to me where our first duty lies, and this morning I telegraphed the First Lord of the Admiralty and put our ship, and every one of us, at his disposal. We now await his decision. I hope you will forgive me, but I particularly asked that if he saw fit to employ us in the service of our country, that might he allow us to stay together, perhaps aboard a destroyer. I did this because I can honestly think of no finer group of men with whom to serve.”
Shackleton received a one-word reply: “Proceed.”
Have you ever been in the middle of race praying to God for strength and received a clear message from him to "Proceed"? It may be subtle such as leg cramps going away, a renewed strength in the last 800 meters, or a fellow competitor coming up behind you and saying "Hey, whats Multisport Ministries all about?"
The story goes on...
The first few hundred miles were rough, but the ship made it successfully through the ice. After continuing on, the Antarctic summer soon ended and the winter months set in. The ship began to run into heavier ice.Shackleton soon realized they were stranded. Cracks in the ice appeared, but, in the end, attempts to free the ship were unsuccessful. The crew prepared for the long, cold winter, and turned the ship into a winter station. The men determined to wait out the winter in hopes that the coming spring would melt the ice around the ship and free it.
Shackleton remained optimistic and, despite the circumstances, the explorers stayed cheerful and busy. They cut out large blocks of ice and built igloos around the ship for themselves and the dogs. They survived on rations and seals that came within reach of their temporary camp. Temperatures were frigid, sometimes dipping down to less than –20 degrees Fahrenheit. But with dogsled races, and frequent games of hockey and football, they kept their spirits high.
You've heard the saying, "When you get lemons, make lemonade." Well that's exactly what Shackleton did. Endurance through hard times requires adaptation to the new environments God has led you. Feel like your stuck on a block of ice? Make an igloo and play hockey. Surround yourself with men who know how to endure through hard times, and have the mental will power to help you through.
Changing Course
In the beginning of 1915, the team was still 250 miles from Paulet Island and too far east of it. Shackleton wrote, “After a year’s incessant battle with the ice, we had returned…to almost identically the same latitude that we had left with such high hopes and aspirations twelve months previously; but under what different conditions now! Our ship crushed and lost, and we ourselves drifting on a piece of ice at the mercy of the winds.”
Gods "course" is not always clear, and we may find ourselves "Drifting on a piece of ice at the mercy of the winds." We may also find ourselves in the exact same location we have been for months. I know i have been there, should we give up? It must be that God wants to teach us something in that spot!
Shackleton knew the only hope for survival was if a few men journeyed to find a rescue ship. Shackleton wrote, “A boat journey in search of relief was necessary and must not be delayed.” He discussed with a few of his top men the prospect of making it to South Georgia before another winter approached; the decision was soon made. The plan was to cross the more than 800 miles of sub-Antarctic Ocean to the possibility of help at South Georgia.
After preparing the boat, Shackleton, along with five others, set sail from Elehpant Island. The voyage was one of constant discomfort and narrow quarters. Shackleton recalled, “We fought the seas and the winds and at the same time had a daily struggle to keep ourselves alive. At times we were in dire peril.” Days went by and the iceberg of Elephant Island gradually shrank into the distance.
The men pushed on through the driving winds and ferocious waters of the Arctic Sea. The explorers finally landed on the southern coast of South Georgia. But the whaling station was on the opposite side of the island. “We were still 150 miles away from Stromness whaling-station by sea. The alternative was to attempt the crossing of the island…Over on Elephant Island twenty-two men were waiting for the relief that we alone could secure for them. Their plight was worse than ours. We must push on somehow.”
Rescue!
They soon made plans to cross over the mountain range to the other side of the island. The men removed screws from the boat to use in their boots for traction to climb the treacherous ice slopes. They crossed the island to the whaling station after more than a day’s journey.
After descending the mountains, they heard the distinct sound of a steam-whistle. Shackleton wrote, “Never had any one of us heard sweeter music. It was the first sound created by outside human agency that had come to our ears since we left…That whistle told us that men were living near, that ships were ready, and that within a few hours we should be on our way back to Elephant Island to the rescue of the men waiting there…It was a moment hard to describe. Pain and ache, boat journeys, marches, hunger and fatigue seemed to belong to the limbo of forgotten things, and there remained only the perfect contentment that comes of work accomplished.”
The whalers sent a ship to the other side of the island to pick up the remaining men there, then continued on to rescue the 22 others on Elephant Island.
In the end, the expedition lasted two years. All 27 of the men survived! When one of the survivors was asked how they had made it, he answered with one word: “Shackleton.”
I want to insert the name "JESUS" right there. Its seems to fit better. If you re-read the story and instead of saying "Shackleton" you say "Jesus", the story becomes one that is very familiar to many of us.
“Endure unto the End”
What lessons can we learn from this incredible story of survival? Shackleton’s example of extraordinary leadership and perseverance has many applications for those striving to live God’s Way.
Those growing up in God’s Church face an extremely difficult age, bombarded every day at school, work or home by the pulls of this world. You may feel intense pressure to give in to the ways of this world. But if you are striving to please God, you must not give in.
Although Proverbs 13:15 states that “the way of transgressors is hard,” living according to God’s laws and principles is not easy either. Overcoming this world is hard work, and takes longsuffering, patience and endurance. Yet it is possible, and yields incredible blessings if one stays the course and refuses to give in—no matter the cost.
Those living God’s Way must endure trials. They must overcome many obstacles in their lives. Notice Matthew 24: “But he that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved” (vs. 13). Here, endurance is directly tied to receiving salvation. (Also see Mark 4:17 and James 5:11.) The Greek word for endure means to “remain…bear (trials)…have fortitude…persevere, abide, take patiently, suffer.”
Endurance is a godly characteristic of which we should all strive to have more. In fact, God never quits. And once we have decided to live His Way, neither can we. We must stay the course! When you feel like caving in, or giving up, consider Shackleton’s story and how he overcame against all odds. If we persevere, God promises our reward will be great (Rev. 21:7)!
MSM Uniform Order Form and Process
If you want to order new MsM gear, copy and paste the form below to a Word document, then email to me.
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Multisport MINISTRIES Uniform Order Form
Complete your uniform order using this form and then and email it to me at jason@multisportministries.com. Orders & full payment must be received by Friday, August 27th. Canari http://www.canari.com/custom.html is our current clothing vendor, and we use “pro fit” styles which tend to run a size small (especially the tri tops) so order appropriately.
NAME: ____________________________________________
ADDRESS: ____________________________________________
CITY: ______________________ ST: _____ ZIP: ________
PHONE #: ______________________
Item Price S M L XL XXL Total Pieces Total Price
Tri Shirt $40
Tri Shorts $40
Tri Suit $80
Jacket $75
Cycle Bibs $65
Cycle Jersey$55
Tech Tee $45
Arm Warmers $20
Leg Warmers $20
PAYMENT INFORMATION:
You can either send a check payable to Multisport Ministries to the following address:
Multisport MINISTRIES
c/o Jason Prince
310 Coastline Dr
Seal Beach, CA 90740
OR ...
If you would rather pay online then follow the link below to use our online donation process through Paypal to make your payment. Please make a note in the payment section letting us know what the payment is for, and email jason@multisportministries.com once you have paid online.
http://www.multisportministries.com/contributions.asp
---------------------------------------------------------------------
Multisport MINISTRIES Uniform Order Form
Complete your uniform order using this form and then and email it to me at jason@multisportministries.com. Orders & full payment must be received by Friday, August 27th. Canari http://www.canari.com/custom.html is our current clothing vendor, and we use “pro fit” styles which tend to run a size small (especially the tri tops) so order appropriately.
NAME: ____________________________________________
ADDRESS: ____________________________________________
CITY: ______________________ ST: _____ ZIP: ________
PHONE #: ______________________
Item Price S M L XL XXL Total Pieces Total Price
Tri Shirt $40
Tri Shorts $40
Tri Suit $80
Jacket $75
Cycle Bibs $65
Cycle Jersey$55
Tech Tee $45
Arm Warmers $20
Leg Warmers $20
PAYMENT INFORMATION:
You can either send a check payable to Multisport Ministries to the following address:
Multisport MINISTRIES
c/o Jason Prince
310 Coastline Dr
Seal Beach, CA 90740
OR ...
If you would rather pay online then follow the link below to use our online donation process through Paypal to make your payment. Please make a note in the payment section letting us know what the payment is for, and email jason@multisportministries.com once you have paid online.
http://www.multisportministries.com/contributions.asp
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