Miles for Meredith

This morning, I’m participating in the 2nd annual Miles for Meredith 5K Run. The race honors the memory of Meredith Hatch, a member of our church who was killed in a tragic accident in June of 2008. Those friends and family who knew her the best and loved her the most have decided to remember her life and continue the work of her life through the Miles for Meredith event and the Foundation that has been set up that, “benefits the causes that were near and dear to Meredith’s heart.” You can read more about the foundation here.

What I appreciate the most about today’s event and the Foundation that has been created in memory of Meredith is that they are vivid examples of one of the most well known passages from Paul’s letter to the church at Rome. Paul writes…

And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. Romans 8:28

Now I’ve never interpreted that verse to mean that God does bad things so that God can do good things. I don’t think that’s what Paul’s expressing. Rather, I think Paul is saying that out of the darkest of experiences of our lives, God can bring healing, restoration, and hope.

I never had the chance to know Meredith Hatch, but I know she was dearly loved and she continues to be missed. And yet out of that place of grief, those who loved her the most are honoring her today… doing a good and wonderful thing… continuing the work of her life…

Today, I’m honored to join them.