Footprints

What do China, India, and the United States have in common? Footprints! They all have large footprints! In fact, they each have the largest footprints of all countries in different environmental areas. China leads in the world’s carbon footprint. India leads in freshwater consumption. The United States leads in plastic waste.*

These are not good footprints, much like the muddy ones you might have left on the kitchen floor after your mother just mopped. But did you know that there are some footprints that are not only desirable, they also show good stewardship and leave a positive, lasting impact? China, India, and the United States have large reforestation footprints. They have all worked to contribute to the well-being of the world. 

Just as these countries see the need for restoration, we as believers know how eternally necessary restoration with God is (Hebrews 9:27). If you are like most who follow Jesus, you want to leave a positive footprint and make an impact on the world because you know that a relationship with Jesus is the only way to that restoration (John 14:6, Acts 4:12). It is essential to salvation and also brings a joyful, meaningful, and fulfilled life now (John 10:10). 

You can leave your footprint in some very practical ways. One way is through the 5th Annual Race to Share the Gospel Around the World on Saturday, May 16th.

The Tide is hosting this in-person 1-Mile Fun Run/Walk and 5K Race at Norlo Park in Fayetteville, PA. There will also be an inflatable obstacle course, yard games, and a complimentary lunch, making it a FREE Family Fun Day for the whole community.  

Consider participating in some way. Start by taking a moment right now and asking God, “How would you like me to leave my footprint through this event?”

Here are some ways that God may lead you:

• Sign up to run or walk
• Volunteer to help at the event
• Bring your family and friends out to the FREE Family Fun Day
• Support a fundraiser by making a donation toward their goal
• Share the event with family and friends through text, social media, or call them and ask them to come with you

For those who are out of the area, you may choose to participate in one of the Virtual Challenge events where you can run, walk/hike, bike, or swim 13 miles over the course of 16 days. Participants in these challenges can take part in virtually flooding the city streets in Ubon Ratchathani, Thailand with prayer by entering their progress each day.  Each mile unlocks prayer suggestions at milestone markers for locations along a race path.

Whatever you do, know that your support equips and encourages other believers. It also supports the work of sharing the life-changing, soul-saving, God-glorifying work of the Gospel through The Tide ministry. 

* Various sources may have different leaders depending on the methods used to measure the footprint.