I love to run. I hate to run. I love to run. I hate to run. I buy new outfits, new shoes just knowing they will make it more fun. Guess what?! I still have a love/hate relationship with running.
But, one thing I truly love about running....the finish line!!! My heart beats faster knowing the end is in sight!
I asked my daughter..."What do you think it means to run a good race for Jesus?" Her response touched my heart. She said, "Think about running on the trail - there are ups and downs and twists and turns - but if you keep your eyes on Jesus the course is easier. He wants us to keep our eyes on heaven - not on the twists and turns." I love the wisdom of honest, young, trusting hearts.
“Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us,”
Hebrews 12:1 NIV
I love this verse. I can so easily see the image of me running - running away from sin...running away from selfishness...running away from pride...running away from anger...running away from all of the ways Satan tries to entangle me.
There are "cheerleaders" along the race. Some , thankfully, offer support and encouragement to run your race in step with Jesus. Several running buddies have often slowed down their own run - to offer support and wait for me so that we can finish the race together. I've seen many sweet friends turn around and go lift up a friend who has fallen behind. Others, sadly, don't understand this race. It is those that I think especially need to see our response to the twists and turns.
We can give hope to the hopeless when we help them see Jesus.
We can give love to the loveless when they see Jesus.
We can give love to the loveless when they see Jesus.
We can give the lonely a friend when they know Jesus.
Lord, I don't always understand the twists and turns. But, I commit the race to You. May those passing by see my eyes fixed on You. Thank You for providing the strength I need along the way. Amen
