Running the Race

Hebrews 12:1 - 3


 ¹Therefore, since we have so great a cloud of witnesses surrounding us, let us also lay aside every encumbrance and the sin which so easily entangles us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us,  ²fixing our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of faith, who for the joy set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.
 ³For consider Him who has endured such hostility by sinners against Himself, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart. 

This weekend, I went to our high school's league track meet.  I had never been to a track meet before.  It was so much fun!  I watched the crazy kids that pole vault, I watched kids lunge the shot put balls, jump long jump, high jump, and run races.  I was impressed by the endurance these kids had.  Let me tell you, there are some very quick kids out there! 

I never saw a kid quit, even if they were half a lap behind.  The determination these kids have to do their best is outstanding.  I didn't see all the races, some were run another day, so I didn't see the long races, like the 3200 Meters.  That shows endurance.   The runners, jumpers, and throwers were cheered on by their family and friends.

There were records broken.  The runners were pushed by knowing what the people before them had done and it made them try and do better.  It gave them an incentive to try their hardest and do their best.  We are the same way as Christians.  We know what those before us have done, how high they have set the bar.  We strive the same way as the runners, not necessarily trying to outdo them, but trying to keep the standard up.  And like the runners, we have a goal.  Our eyes are fixed on Jesus.  His example helps us not to give up or grow tired and frustrated.