Day Twenty One: Keep Running the Race
Hebrews 12:1,
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.
Here is perhaps the ultimate act of worship that brings honor and glory to God our Father and so perhaps the perfect devotion with which to end. With the Olympics coming up and with all the pre-trials leading up to it, I can’t think of a better illustration of discipline, sacrifice and dedication than that of the Olympics.
I love the Olympics. People train so hard to represent their country and their people well. It’s a sense of pride and accomplishment. In Hebrews 12, Paul uses this analogy of an athlete running before the cheers and adulation of many fans cheering them on as they race towards the finish line. Yet, instead of running for the glory of ourselves or our country, we’re running all for the glory of God. Verse 1 says, “throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles.” An athlete has to make some sacrifices, such as what they eat, how they spend their time, who they spend their time with and even financial sacrifices. Also, think about how an athlete accepts discipline from his/her coach. They need it. They love it. Because in the end, they know it will make them that much better at their event. They understand that a good coach has their best interests in mind and wants them to achieve the ultimate goal of receiving the prize. Verse 11, “no discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it.” I love the image of an athlete coming across the finish line, making a beeline to their coach, hugging each other with the ensuing tears that become so cathartic as the dreams and aspirations have been realized.
Can you imagine the day when we cross the finish line of life and we enter into heaven? As we make our beeline to Christ who is so proud of us and with words I’ve longed to hear. “Well done, good and faithful one, for you have represented your heavenly father well.” It makes the sacrifice, the hardships, the discipline and self-denial all worth it. The life well lived brings the ultimate worship to God. Such a great illustration from Apostle Paul.
Reading: Hebrews 12:1-13; 2 Timothy 4:1-8
Song: The Afters – Well Done