26.2 for Peri

This morning, my sister and I participated in our 7th marathon in our 7th state; this one was in the beautiful southern city of Lafayette, Louisiana. The weather could not have been more perfect,  the course was well-marked, and our hotel was .2 miles from the start/finish line. It was an A+ day… except for one thing, we were minus our dear companion.

Peggy and I had hoped we would be pushing our friend Peri Thomas these 26.2 miles, but God had other plans. She is now in heaven with with Him, whole, no need to be pushed anywhere. (Her story can be found on my website entitled "From Passer-by to Crossing the Street").  Instead of pushing, we prayed. We prayed for her children: Taylor, Jack, Clayton, Emma Kate, and George. And we prayed for her husband Gordon. Today would have been their 18th wedding anniversary. In addition to praying for this family, we also prayed for the state of Louisiana: for revival in individual hearts, for the government, the churches, the schools, and the families. There is something powerful about praying fervently while on the run; I loved it, even in the hurt of the long miles. I know God hears, and I know God answers.

In this post, I wanted to also say a big THANK YOU to each of you for all of your financial and prayer support for Peri's family. Gordon was overwhelmed with gratitude when my husband Mac and I took the HopeWalking check over to him last week. Through your generosity, we were able to bless them with $4200. It amazes me that all you who gave, had never met Peri or her family; you just loved from afar. Again, thank you; you have strengthened my faith in God and how He works lovingly through His people.

I will end this post with my sister's and my HopeWalking verse; it was printed on the back of our t-shirts, just beneath the name of our dear friend Peri Thomas. As you read it, I ask you to pray, once again, for Gordon and the Thomas children. And once again I will say, thank you.


May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in Him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.  Romans 15:13