Running the race

Hebrews 12:1-2
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.
2 Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.

(NIV - Copyright 1973, 1978, 1984 by International Bible Society)

Two fourth-graders running through the chapel--one wearing a heavy backpack, the other with a fishnet wrapped around his ankles. Eighteen other fourth-graders, wearing costumes from various time periods, screaming and shouting at the tops of their lungs. Encouraging their buddies on.

"Untangle the net!"
"Drop the pack!"
"Run! Run!"

The runners keep going until they reach "Jesus", waiting for them on the platform.

Do you think the K-5th grade "got it"? Do we get it?

If I read Hebrews 11 and 12 correctly, the concept is mind-boggling!

Moses is wanting us to stop thinking that we're not eloquent enough to speak for Christ.
Daniel is cheering for us to keep praying, in spite of distraction, delay, or danger.
Abraham is encouraging us to follow God, even when He leads us into the wilderness.
Peter wants us to stand up for our Savior, even when it's scary or embarrassing.
The apostle Paul and other Christian martyrs through the ages are reminding us that any suffering will be more than outweighed by the glories of heaven.

And to top it off, Jesus is interceding on our behalf EVERY second of EVERY moment of EVERY day!

In the light of all this, how can we ever say, "I can't handle this, I just don't know if it's worth it "?!

Will you join me? Let's lace up our shoes and get our focus on the finish line.

On your marks...get set...GO!!!