04/11/2008
1Therefore since we also have such a large cloud of witnesses surrounding us, let us lay aside every weight and the sin that so easily ensnares us, and run with endurance the race that lies before us, 2keeping our eyes on Jesus, the source and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that lay before Him endured a cross and despised the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of God’s throne.
I am not a runner. I don’t really relate to those who are. For me, running is merely the method of getting somewhere quicker, or perhaps getting away from something bad. I don’t understand those who run just to run.
Occasionally, I will catch a glimpse of a marathon, in which people punish their bodies for 26 miles. These events are not only attended by the runners, but thousands of spectators also gather to watch and cheer their favorite runner. People line the street with water and first aid. So many people are looking on.
This is the image I get when I read this passage above from Hebrews. The word “cloud” refers to such a large crowd that the size of it cannot be comprehended. We are, as it were, running a race, and there are multitudes of people who will witness our “running the race” at various times and in various situations. Some of those watching are helpers and cheering us on; some are there for our aid when we fall. And still some are merely watching to see how well we run.
How then should we run? You will note that in a marathon, the runners are not wearing business suits and dresses. They are not carrying backpacks with supplies. Rather, they are in shorts with lightweight clothing and shoes. They are carrying nothing extra (having faith that provisions will be provided as they are needed). Similarly, we must consider what it is that will allow us to live this life unhindered. We should shed all those things that we think we need, having faith that God will provide them as we need them. Because if we try to carry our own provisions, we weigh ourselves down and surely fail to finish the race.
Runners also “psych” themselves up, that is, they focus on the goal. They do not balance their checkbook while running, or make stock trades; rather, they clear their mind of all distractions so that they can ensure their breathing is steady and that their steps are well placed. Likewise, the objective for us is to live Godly lives. To do this, we must focus on Jesus: for He is the perfect image of faithfulness. Jesus lived His life with the singular goal in mind, the cross. Yet with this hideous end in sight, he remained steady, knowing that His glory lied just beyond the grave.
Likewise, the goal for us also is not just the completion of this life, but what lies beyond. I believe that when we keep this in mind, the things of this world become less significant. So many people are watching you “run the race.” How are you running?
Jeff Justus
Cleff Publishing
www.cleffpublishing.com
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