Five Minute Friday: Race...

Part of Five Minute Friday at lisajobaker.com

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

This life is a race.  I love the Five Minute Friday series because I'm never sure in what direction the topic will lead my writing, but it's usually spiritual-related rather than the funny and cute mommy posts I usually do on my blog.  This verse immediately came to mind when I read the topic.  I've always loved it, being a runner for many years.

I imagine someone running, stripping themselves of heavy clothing and being basically naked to get to the finish line faster.  Jumping over complex patterns of strings that threaten to trip the runner, like an obstacle course (sin).  I imagine Jesus at the finish line, beckoning, shouting, "You can do it, keep your eyes on Me, you're almost there!"  I remember the last stretch of the Pittsburgh Marathon, how I was just thinking of being done, and how I would be able to rest, and drink some water, and see my family (and J.W., who of course had finished before me).  I wouldn't even THINK of stopping when I saw the finish line in front of me.

In life, Jesus is right in front of me, if I choose to see Him.  So I can't even CONSIDER stopping; persevere, keep running the awesome race of life, because when it's over, I will get to rest and replenish, and see loved ones too!  What a beautiful metaphor.  But in life, it's not about running the race fastest, it's more about living WELL, which I am seeking to do more and more of.  And God is showing me every day little glimpses of his care along the way.  He's like the race volunteers that hand out vaseline for your chafed body parts, twizzlers, gatorade, and water.  He doesn't leave us to run the race alone, He helps us out along the way.  Very cool.  :)