Running the Race

On our journey to heaven,

we are all running a race.

We all start at different places

and run at a different pace.

Some more athletic.

Some having learned how to train.

Some having a harder path.

Some running in spite of all of the pain.

Sometimes the race feels easy,

and we feel so, very strong.

Sometimes the race feels very challenging,

and every step seems to take so, very long.

But the beauty of this race

is that we aren't actually competing.

While we all run together,

there is no one we hope to be beating.

We are here to build each other up

and to cheer each other on.

We are here to lift up those who feel weak

whenever we feel strong.

To offer grace to the one

who is running extra slow.

To offer hope to the one

who doesn't seem to know where to go.

Offering the one who is lost

a new sense of purpose and direction.

Offering the one who is hurt

an extra measure of love and affection.

Even though it is a "race,"

we are not here to compare or compete.

We set our eyes on Jesus

because He is the One who guides our feet.

It's not about who gets there first,

and everyone can win the prize.

It's not about how fast or well someone else is running,

and all about where we are fixing eyes.

Because fixing our eyes on Jesus,

the Author and Perfecter of our faith,

is the only way when the race is run

that we will be able to find the gate.

We won't waste our breath with hurtful words.

We won't tear another person down.

When our brother or sister stumbles,

we will help them get back up to receive their crown.

Because when we ALL get to heaven,

what a wonderful day it will be,

all of us runners who ran the race together

with our eyes, thoughts, and words on Calvary.

So Much Love,