Shadow Runners

by Molly Baskette | published on Nov 14, 2025

[Jesus replied,] “But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you will be my witnesses … to the ends of the earth.” – Acts 1:8 (NRSV) 

Every year, a few hundred intrepid runners take on the Western States Endurance Run. Starting near Lake Tahoe, the route takes them 18,000 cumulative feet over the Sierra Nevadas and down to historic gold country of Northern California, through snow at higher elevations and temps of up to 110 at lower ones.  

If the runners lose too much weight during the race, they are pulled out due to the risk of heatstroke and renal failure. 

My first question: why would you do such a thing voluntarily? My second question: how is it even possible for a human body to complete such a task?  

Toward the end of the race, as runners come close to civilization again, shadow runners join them. Shadow runners are local runners who can’t aid the participant in any material way, but simply run alongside them for morale. Those shadow runners give many of the weary ultramarathoners the witness and draft they need to finish the race.  

The best descriptor I ever heard for the Holy Spirit is “strength beyond ourselves.” After his resurrection and victory tour, Jesus promises the Holy Spirit’s power to his disciples, then disappears into a cloud. Ten days later, as they are doubtless growing weary and frightened that he is gone forever, the Spirit shows up on cue. Fueled by this “shadow runner,” ordinary humans begin to do wondrous, previously impossible feats. 

Holy-Spirit-fueled miracles continue to this day. Extraordinary acts of kindness, courage and generosity. System-shifting revolutions by people of faith, who can go the distance.  

Prayer
Shadow-Runner, we started strong—but it’s been a big ascent in hot times, and we doubt we can make it to the finish line. Come and cheer us, Strength-Beyond-Ourselves, and tell us we’re almost there.

Molly BasketteAbout the Author
Rev. Molly Baskette is the lead pastor of First Church Berkeley UCC and the author of books about church renewal, parenting, spiritual growth and more. Sign up for her author newsletter or get information about her newest book at mollybaskette.com.