I want to be "Cross-fit"

It's the latest craze and a LOT of my friends are "doing it." They've even talked me into giving it a try. I am talking, of course, about Cross-fit.

For those of you who have never heard of this madness, here's an explanation I found at crossfit.com. 

"The CrossFit program is wholly unique in its aims, prescriptions, methodologies, and implementation, writes Coach Greg Glassman in “Understanding CrossFit.”

We sought to build a program that would best prepare trainees for any physical contingency—prepare them not only for the unknown but for the unknowable as well." link to article

Tonight as I read a blog written by one of my "cross-fit friends" the name just struck me, CROSS-fit. Do you see it, too? 

Someone asked me today why I wanted to try this; why did I keep pushing myself to work harder and harder? I guess I've been sort of dwelling on that question since they asked me because when I saw that word tonight it all came together. The reason I have become so diligent in exercising and trying to get/keep myself in shape is because I want to be fit to carry my cross and follow Jesus. I am not trying to make light of the verse that talks about taking up your cross...but as I looked at that word tonight, it became very clear to me WHY I do what I do.

This year I was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes - something you'd expect to find in a kid. Trust me, I haven't been a kid for a LONG time. I could have gotten angry, but instead I am actually thankful. To begin with, thanks to a very persistent friend, I found out I was diabetic BEFORE I wound up in the hospital. Since my levels were 543 when we discovered it, I'd say that's a lot to be thankful for. 

Secondly, since my diagnosis I have really started to understand that I have to take care of this vehicle God has given me to sport around here in while I'm on earth. I may not have the fanciest model, or even the prettiest; but this is the vehicle He chose for me and it's my responsibility to take care of it! I don't get to trade it in this side of heaven so it's my choice to drive a clunker or keep it running smooth. That means I have to watch what I put in my "tank" and I have to include exercise to keep all the parts moving!

I want to be fit, not just to live and enjoy life, but to follow Him! I want to be prepared not just spiritually, but physically as well for the "unknown and the unknowable." I was created for a purpose and I don't plan on finishing out my days sitting in a barn rusting out! This little punch-buggy has got a lot to do! I would hate to stand before my Father one day and say, "I was just too tired and worn out to follow." 

Why have I made exercise a priority in my life? Simply because I want to be "Cross-fit" for the rest of my days. So whether you join in the latest craze or simply get up off the couch and go for a walk, I'd like to invite you to join me. You may be a sports car, an eighteen wheeler or something in-between; but it's never too late to start tuning it up. The journey's not over yet, my friend....

Luke 9:23

New International Version (NIV)

 ²³ Then he said to them all: “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me.