Running with Pop Psalms

Vikki is starting the last 30 days of training for her second successive Chicago Marathon on Sunday, October 7. 

​Besides the work (running, stretching, body strengthening), she's shaping her "VikkiThonPlaylist -- songs she'll be listening to while running.  In the training process, we'll highlight some of the songs on her playlist and her thoughts of why they're there.)

My playlist is a mix of "church music" and "pop music." Some may wonder about the latter, however, in either case, Vikki says, " I'm able to hear God's voice through the lyrics."

In fact, that perspective is behind numerous songs Vikki has adapted for her CDs and solo women's programs.  The perspective is also what has kept her going through two marathons and five half-marathons. 

​Here are some examples, and  Vikki's thoughts on what the songs mean. (Click on the song titles for the lyrics.)

Another Star

Here's a live version of "Another Star" by Stevie Wonder, the rhythm of which we played as the processional of our wedding. (And, no, I'll not be running at this tempo.)

​I think of this as a psalm, an emotional tug-of-war of God's love...perhaps a conversation between David and God, or Job and God... maybe we are running from God's love and He is in pursuit (in the marathon vein).

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Got to Get You Into My Life

"Got to Get You Into My Life," the Lennon-McCartney song covered by Earth, Wind & Fire as I run, is another psalm example. However, rather than debate, it's a shout out (think Psalms 149, 150) to celebrate the Lord's love, or the cry of one who is repenting and returning.

Take a listen and connect the words to passages you know. I'd love to hear which scriptures speak to you through this song.

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Run the Marathon with Vikki

Vikki is looking to like-minded friends and artists to run the Chicago Marathon with her.  You can do so without leaving  where you are now.  How?

1)  Vikki's run of 26.2 miles will take over four hours.  She'd like more songs and is open to suggestions, especially original tunes that might be propelling and encouraging for a run.  If you're an artist, please email Vikki a suggestion "church song" or "pop song" (any genre), or comment below.

2) Vikki is running to raise support for St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.  Each day she makes progress toward her goal of $2900.  Please consider donating.  Follow this link to do so and learn more.