Hebrews 12 - The Race

Hebrews 12:1-3 (NIV), "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. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart."

This was written by my son and said so well that I just had to repeat it here to share with you.

"Runners look towards and think about only one thing, the end which gives them victory. With victory comes a great prize. We as Christians are promised the greatest prize imaginable, eternity with Christ in Glory. How then do we allow ourselves to forget so quickly about the race set before us? How then do we so quickly forget about the prize that awaits?

Horses used to pull carriages are given a set of blinders so that they don't get destracted by what is to their left or right. Do we then not have a set of blinders that keep us fully focused on Christ? Well? The answer is yes. We just often "forget" (and I use that term loosely) them. We are truely and easily entaingled by the things that are headed for the junk yard.

Paul talks about how Christ suffered the cross willing because of the JOY that He would recieve having us in Heaven. Beaten, mocked, denied, and stripped of his clothing, willing;y took on the sin of man. And with perseveance ran the race that God set before Him, knowing full well that the end, here on earth, was being crucified on a cross. The most dishororing way to die, and yet, He did it willingly and took GREAT joy in the prize that He does not yet have. Why then can we not even for a moment stay focused on Him and take Joy in the prize that is yet to come?"

Take Refuge my friend. A race run well results in the ultimate prize - eternity with Christ.