Running the Race

September 3, 2008

1 Corinthians 9:24 exhorts Christians with these words, “Do you not know that those who run in a race all run, but only one receives the prize? Run in such a way that you may win.” Labor Day morning gave me a chance to do something I truly enjoy, running. I participated in the U.S. 10K Classic in Marietta, Georgia. In that race I do not know who received the prize for the overall male and female winner, but I know it was not yours truly! Nor can I even say I followed Paul’s injunction to, “Run in such a way that you may win.” 50 year old joggers do not win these races! But, this race did provide a good learning experience for me- really, two.

The course was up and down hills. It starts off with a slight downhill and then you are almost immediately on the first of several long hills. Learning experience number one for me, that is how life is. There are many ups and downs. Runners can not quit because the hill is steep or long. We go through those times in our lives when we are going up a hard hill in marriage or finances or emotionally or in our career or in- you can add to this list. Which hill are you on today? May I encourage you not to quit? Even though it is much harder and you may want to quit, keep running. Others have made it and so shall you, in due time.

The second learning experience is that running with a partner sure beats running alone. Yes, honestly, there are times that I enjoy running alone, but on a long run having a partner with you makes all the difference in the world. Here is the main point, when you are climbing the steep hills of the challenges of life, it sure does make a big difference to have somebody with you. We really cannot be isolated as Christians and expect to get up too many hills. It just will not happen. I am so incredibly thankful for a life running partner in my sweet wife. She is there for me for every hill! As wonderful as she is to me, I like you, still need the encouragement of fellowship with other believers in the church. Don’t even think of running up the hills of life without other Christians. It just will not happen.

Maybe you are starting up a long hill as you read this. The top looks so far away. Focus on the goal. Persevere; it will be worth it if you do.

Pastor Chuck