The Race:Part I

I've begun training for a half marathon. That's right, for some insane reason, I've decided to run 13.1 miles all in one morning in mid-November. Running has always been a hobby of mine, but it's also been an incredible metaphor for my faith. Over my next few posts, I'm going to record some of the thoughts I've had while training.

Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everthing that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us. (Hebrews 12:1)
I've always imagined that the cloud of witnesses are the fans in the stadium watching me run and cheering me on. However, a commentary I read recently described the cloud of witnesses as fellow Christians who have run the race of faith with you and are now handing off the baton.

Back when I ran track in high school, I always preferred relay races over individual competitions. I didn't feel alone. I had my team running with me instead of against me. Relays were exciting because every runner ran their best for an incredibly fast combined race. However, the handoffs were always nerve-racking. With anticipation, you waited as your teammate approached at full speed. My heart would pump faster and faster the closer they got. I knew my part of the race was coming. My teammate would yell go, and I would take off with my hand trailing behind. As I received the baton, I would run my hardest for my team.

That's what our faith is like. Saints before us have paved the way. God himself has empowered us with grace to run well. We just need to be willing to take the baton and continue God's kingdom work in our time and in our place. Of course, you will get tired. Your body, mind, heart, and soul will hurt. You will sometimes wonder why you entered the race of faith at all. But those of us who are runners know the rush of a runner's high, of a race finished that was well run. So, run with perseverance. This isn't a sprint; be prepared for a marathon. But trust in God's grace to give you endurance to run and finish well for God's team.