Book Review: Running with God Across America

I was recently given the opportunity to review Running with God Across America by Jeff Grabosky.  Before I share my thoughts, here is an excerpt:

What makes a person undertake a solo and unsupported 3,700 mile run across the United States? For Jeff Grabosky, it begins four years prior to his crossing with a series of tragic events. Jeff prays his way through his darkest days, and the prayers are answered – in a remarkable way. Jeff responds to the call on his heart to run across America to encourage people to pray. Jeff prays for thousands of prayer intentions sent to him from all over the world as he averages well over a marathon per day. The story of the transcontinental journey takes you through a wide variety of challenges on the road, in his mind, and in his heart. 

I initial chose to review this book because of the connection of exercise in my life.  Those who know me, know that I have been working to improve my health and fitness this year.  As part of that goal, I have been running nearly a 5K every day, in addition to other physical activities.  So, I chose this book because of my connection with running.

But what I found in this book was far more than the text of one man's amazing and awe-inspiring 3,700 mile across the United States.  I saw one man's dedication to prayer that surpasses that of most people.  Indeed, innocence of heart is a goal for all of us and Mr. Grabosky shows his dedication to a  mission of prayer more so than to simply running the equivalent of a marathon everyday for over 5 months.  The book does more than simply describe the physical dangers and perils of his journey - it shows the driving force behind his pilgrimage.

How many people would be willing (or physically able) to run the distance he ran without God's good grace?  And indeed, we know that no one can do anything aside from the grace of God (cf. John 15:5).  In the same respects, we read in 1 Corinthians 9:24, "Know you not that they that run in the race, all run indeed, but one receiveth the prize? So run that you may obtain."  And so if so many run and practice with such dedication for an earthly prize (e.g. the Olympics), than why can we not all run with the same rigor and innocence of Mr. Grabosky to further spread the Gospel, bring about conversions, make reparation for sins, and bring out the Kingdom of our Lord Jesus Christ?

I do recommend this book as an inspiring story of motivation and endurance.  It numbers 235 pages and it is not a challenging read.  I read the book over the course of two weeks while on my stationary bicycle, adding an extra challenge to help me better relate to his physical demands as I was reading the text.

Copies are available on Amazon.com.