Just as in Lourdes people put the needs of others first and just as in Lourdes anyone who was purely interested in their own gain must very quickly have felt out of place. And satisfying as the run on Sunday was, to be running holding the hand of one of my nephews, helping him help others (with no medal for me) was the best part of the weekend. If only we could make that a reality everyday of our lives how much happier we would be!

In fact to be honest, it reminded me of how fortunate I am to have the opportunity to live that out each day in my ministry and just how fulfilling that is (even though it is sometimes challenging as is a long run, or a shorter run for my youngest nephew who only has little legs). If we try and live our lives for others then we will have a fulfilment that comes from Christ himself and a sense of deep joy and purpose.

Everybody who ran for someone else this weekend caught a glimpse of what it feels like to have a vocation: a calling to serve others using the gifts and talents that we have been give. Each one of us is called to do that each day. So why not get in training for the walk of life knowing that Christ is with us and will show us the way if we are prepared to follow him and serve those who need our help.