The two of them were running together...

          The two of them were running together, but the other disciple ran faster than Peter and came to the tomb first.  John 20:4

          Was this the first kilt run? We can leave it with "Guinness"to rule on whether the running clothing met the standard of the day. What we do know is that the total runners were two, and that the first winner was John, having out run the older Peter to the "finish line" at the tomb. But, these were not the first to the tomb on "Easter morning"...nor the first runner of the day - that honour goes to Mary Magdalene, who had setout just before sunrise to visit where Jesus had been buried. Arriving, she found the secured burial stone had been moved from the tomb entrance. "So she ran, and came to Simon Peter and to the other disciple whom Jesus loved, .... John 20:2" It was this news that set John and Peter off running their race... to see for themselves. While Peter had been out run, we are told he was the first to enter into the tomb, and find that Jesus was not there, and that the burial cloth was neatly folded. The race over, they headed back home. But Mary had followed them to the tomb, and had stayed after they left. Like the Perth Kilt Run's Grand Runners Draw Prize - you must be present, to be awarded the prize. So the "prize" of being the first to meet Jesus Christ Risen... went to Mary! Having been witness to Jesus, she had one more run to make, going and announcing to the disciples, "I have seen the Lord"!

            It is "Good Friday" today, and "Easter Sunday" to follow... as 2013 Perth Kilt Run Race Director, I wish you, our runners ... a Happy Easter to enjoy.

            The message I shared above of that 1st Easter morning race ... is a message to me. To one that fails often ... when I "run the race that has been set before me".  But each race in a fresh start, a new chance, and  I must not loose sight of the prize...which is Jesus.

                                                Lord Darnley