TREK ON:

The Journey of a Disciple

Chapter 1 begins with an invitation for the reader to embark on a transformative journey, paralleled to a marathon, echoing Psalm 119:32. The author emphasizes the importance of making an informed decision and prompts the reader to consider their commitment to the journey.

The chapter then delves into the author's personal experiences with running, starting from their time on the junior high track team to joining the Marine Corps and eventually rediscovering their passion for running later in life. Through anecdotes of running challenges and lessons learned, the author highlights themes of perseverance, discipline, and the impact of mentors.

The narrative transitions to the concept of calling, distinguishing between vocational calling associated with Christian professions and the broader calling to live out one's Christian faith as a disciple. The author emphasizes the foundational importance of answering the call to discipleship, stressing accountability and the impact of individual decisions on others.

Finally, the chapter concludes with an invitation to embrace the marathon of life as a committed follower of Christ, echoing the Apostle Paul's analogy of running the race of faith. The reader is encouraged to reflect on their personal journey and commit to the disciplines of discipleship outlined in subsequent chapters. The chapter sets the stage for the exploration of key characteristics of discipleship and offers practical reflections for individual and group engagement.