Keeping the Finish Line in Sight
By Laura Bailey
“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, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.” - Hebrews 12:1-2 NIV
In college, a friend convinced me it would be a good idea to sign up for a half-marathon. Since I was not a runner, I spouted off various reasons why I wouldn’t be able to join her; mainly, it was the time commitment that turned me off. I eventually succumbed to her persistent request and dedicated myself to training and preparing for race day. The training alone required numerous hours a week, and then there was the actual race which would take up an entire weekend.
Standing at the finish line my friend chuckled, “I can’t believe we’re here; no matter what happens, let’s promise to finish this race!” “I’m all in! There’s nothing that is going to stop me from crossing that line,” I smiled back. And all went well until mile 12; we only had 1.1 miles to go, but my friend pulled her hamstring and wanted to stop. I knew she was in severe pain, but she couldn’t give up when we were close.
I think about that day often; it was my go-to story for years when someone asked if I’ve experienced something difficult. Twenty years later, it is a faint memory, overshadowed by experiences and more complex circumstances. An aching muscle seems like a poor illustration these days when I've seen my friends face divorce because of an affair. Or when someone I love is dealing with the death of a loved one. Or when I'm navigating relational tension in my own family.
The New Testament often likens the Christian life to a race, requiring training, dedication, focus, and perseverance to keep going in all circumstances. We also read in Scripture that we will experience trials and tribulations and a cost associated with a life fully surrendered to Christ (Luke 9:57-62). I think about how much I sacrificed for the race. I traded my college diet for healthier options. I declined invitations for late-night outings because my body needed sleep. Countless times I wanted to hit the snooze button.
I've since retired from my marathon schedule. Still, every day is a chance to surrender my desires and make sacrifices to finish my race and keep my faith (2 Timothy 4:7). The choice is to get up early and attend corporate worship or catch some extra sleep. The budget gets tight, and the choice arises to tithe and help others or to skimp on honoring God with our resources. Many sacrifices will be made; each is a training ground, ensuring we finish this faith race with endurance. Someone says something offensive, and the opportunity to forgive or hold a grudge comes up. Will I love the unlovable more than myself?
The good news is that God doesn't require sacrifice without extending great rewards. In Matthew 5:11-12, we are encouraged that our great reward is in heaven. Peter tells us that those who belong to God have an eternal inheritance in Christ that never spoils or fades (1 Peter1:3-6). After this race is over, and we finish strong, we get perfect communion with God and His people with no trace of sin; what an amazing trade-off for our time spent training. My friend finished her race, albeit significantly slower than she'd hoped. Her hobble across the finish line wasn't photo-worthy. But she completed the course, and the hours of training and sacrifices were well worth it.
Remember that this life is a race today, especially if you're currently running the most challenging mile and feel unsure if you can keep going. Maybe you're not sprinting on this stretch like the people around you. That's okay, stay focused on Christ and keep putting one foot in front of the other. We can trust that as we make choices to sacrifice and persevere, our character and endurance have the opportunity to grow. And when we cross that finish line, we will finally be rewarded with the words we long to hear, "Well done, good and faithful servant." (Matthew 25:23)
Intersecting Faith and Life:
Take some time today to pray and ask God to help you stay faithful and persevere in your Christian walk. Ask yourself if your current habits align with training to run a spiritual race well. Are you nourishing yourself by reading God's Word? Do you have accountability, such as in a small group? Are you being refreshed and replenished by worshiping at a local church gathering? These few habits can give you the spiritual boost you may need to finish strong.
Further Reading:
How to Finish the Race Well
2 Timothy 4:7
Photo credit: Austris Augusts/Unsplash
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