This May, I participated in my fifth consecutive Indianapolis Half Marathon. What an experience and thrill to cross the finish line!  Every time I’ve crossed the line the words, “There is a God” seem to naturally fall from my mouth.

After this year's race my brothers and I gathered at my aunt's for lunch and family banter.  Jim said, “Why don’t we all sign up and do the race next year?”  Mind you - at this point my 41 year old hips were getting stiff as a board.  Both brothers agreed and one sister-in-law said she’d lace up her running shoes for the event.   So we are all registered and looking forward to training, encouraging each other and running the 13.1 miles on May 2, 2009.

After hitting the send button for registration it occurred to me how often in our lives we’ll focus and train for specific goals – finishing the race, practicing the putts, working on the free throw and finishing the degree.    Truth be told, a great deal of time and energy goes into countless goals we set for ourselves.

What would happen if we applied similar discipline and energy to our spiritual lives?  If we took some of that energy and effort we direct towards academic excellence, athletics and careers, our lives might be more enriched and God-centered. If all we’re giving God is just one hour a week - and that’s all we’ve done for a while- is that enough?  Or does God deserve more?  Countless people have said to me over the years, “I want a deeper spiritual life.” May I make a suggestion? Set a goal and stick to it.   More than we can possibly fathom, God wants each of us to mature and grow closer to Him.

Where do you want to be in your spiritual life next year at this time?  Set a goal, you’ll be glad you did! Have a good week!

Love, Fr. Bill