Read 1 Corinthians 9:24-27, Hebrews 12:1-3, Acts 20:24 and 2 Timothy 4:2.
In college, I despised marathon days and the individuals that blocked me from freely moving around the city. Traffic was unpredictable. Roads were closed. My impatience rose. Then in an irony of ironies, I became one of the half marathon runners, and it was one of the most worshipful experiences of my life.
For months I trained with other believers to discipline and strengthen our bodies to do something that seemed unattainable. In the process, we were called brave, strong, and more. Frankly, I most often thought we were crazy. I left my house on race day thinking, “I will only finish this race by the grace of God.” Dozens of training miles and a little over two hours later, I crossed the finish line.
As wonderful as it was to complete the course, the greatest moment wasn’t finishing, but the unique opportunity to tangibly experience the Scriptures that compare life to a race. Each stride turned the black and white pages to color. By mile 12, I didn’t want to finish the race with any energy left, and I think that is our aim in life too. Anything less leads to regret.
After years of focusing on Christ and the proclamation of His gospel, we should cross the finish line of eternity echoing the Apostle Paul, “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith” (2 Timothy 4:7).
Father, teach us to run the race of faith You’ve called us to well, throwing off the sin that entangles us and focusing on Christ for the spread of Your glory. Amen.
-from a short-term mission trip participant