Hebrews 12 begins by applying all of the details given in the previous chapter and refers to this collection of evidence as “a great cloud of witnesses”. These facts in history should inspire us to endure persecution; the ultimate example of this of course is Jesus who endured horrific hardships. Today I want to focus on the first three verses here in chapter 12. Many years ago, I participated in a sponsored fun run. I’m no great fan of running and find the process of training alone tedious and lonely. However, on the day of the run I was encouraged by the number of people who turned out along the route in support. This really helped me to push myself to the limit and give it my all.
Running the race as Christians, however, is somewhat different. It still requires training, commitment and perseverance but the objective is different. When taking part in an organised run event you are competing against your fellow runners with the intent of finishing as high up the order as possible. In the Christian race we are all in it together.
No competition with one another but working as a team striding to reach the finish line together. Scripture tells us that there may be many hurdles to overcome. These obstacles will test our resolve to continue the race. But with God on our side and our fellow brothers and sisters in Christ to encourage and support us we are never alone. To win the race the Olympian must stay focused on the goal, put forward his very best effort and stay committed to the task. In reaching the goal set before us as Christians we require the same disciplines in life. The difference between the Olympian goal and our Christian goal is the final reward. The ultimate prize for those who run the Christian race is the reward of eternal life in the heavenly realms with our Lord and Saviour. If you fix your eyes on Jesus as you run the race of life, you are a guaranteed winner.
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Action
Part of our training as Christians to run the race set before us is to ensure we are duly fed to sustain us and give us the sustenance we need in order to endure the inevitable obstacles we will face. Feed on God’s word in scripture every day to give you your daily bread and pray that the Holy Spirit will give you the strength and capacity to overcome any obstacle. These two disciplines are essential to our daily life and remember you are not alone.