As we begin the New Year together, it's a good time to reflect on our life – where have we come from, where are we now, and where are we going? Through the course of time, we all move through: age stages (child, teenager, young adult, adult, senior adult), faith stages (seeking, finding, growing, maturing), and seasons, with their beginnings and endings. One thing we know for sure – time is moving, and so is your life. This can be exciting and also sobering (see If Life Were a 24 Hour Clock, What Time Is it For You?).
No wonder, Moses gave us this advice:
Psalm 90:10-12. Our days may come to seventy years, or eighty, if our strength endures … they quickly pass, and we fly away … Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom. NIV
Today, we want to look at the metaphor of a race as representative of our life. This may just offer us a NEW perspective that will be helpful. The author of the letter to the Hebrews wrote this:
Hebrews 12:1-3. Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a huge crowd of witnesses to the life of faith, let us strip off every weight that slows us down, especially the sin that so easily trips us up. And let us run with endurance the race God has set before us. We do this by keeping our eyes on Jesus, the champion who initiates and perfects our faith. Because of the joy awaiting him, he endured the cross, disregarding its shame. Now he is seated in the place of honor beside God’s throne. Think of all the hostility he endured from sinful people; then you won’t become weary and give up. NLT
As you run your race of life, throw aside anything that might hinder or slow you down. Understand that your race will require sustained effort (“endurance”). Keep your eyes not only on the goal but on Jesus. HE is the source of your faith and your strength.
So, how is your race going right now?
[Part 2]