“...let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus, the Author (Founder) and Finisher (perfecter) of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God.”

Hebrews Chapter 12, vs 1-2

Ready! Set!! Go!!!

The race that we have before us is one of endurance. And know that it is a race; there is a starting line, there is a distance to be run, there is a finish line and there is a reward to the winner!

The beauty of this race is there are many winners, even if we each are called to race as if there is only one.

Jesus Christ started the race – put it into motion, the day He died, and then rose again. He placed each of us at the starting line, the day we received Him as our Savior. Every athlete undertakes the discipline of training in order to prepare for the race and then continues to exercise the discipline he practiced as he or she runs and suffers – legs aching, body screaming for water and rest. Without discipline, there is no way anyone could ever in this race, not to mention complete it.

The word “disciple” is the origin of the word “discipline.” So, when Jesus calls each of us to be a disciple, he calls each of us into a discipline. This discipline entails growing in grace into the full maturity of “being” a Christian. This discipline requires study, prayer and the battle to lay aside all sin because we thirst to know more and more of our Lord and Love, Jesus Christ.

It was not His duty to do what He did for us...It was His joy!

So brothers and sisters: May we each meditate on what there is in our life which would keep us from growing, running and finishing this blessed race. May we go before the throne of grace to seek the assistance we need from Jesus Christ and His Spirit, to overcome every weight which holds us back and down. He put us in the this race, and He will ensure we get to the finish line! If we would go to Him, He will help us lay those things aside...things which will only harm us.

May we run this race swiftly! May we run it to win it! 

Ready! Set!! Go!!!

Love, Chris