Run the Race 

   “Every athlete exercises discipline in every way.  They do it to win a perishable crown, but we an imperishable one.” (1 Cor 9: 25) 

   The crown we seek is not a crown of earthly value but one of eternal life.  But if we are to win this crown we must prepare, we must sacrifice, we must try with all our strength to win the race.

   People sacrifice many things to win the crowns of this world.  Athletes spend hours and hours strengthening their bodies to win a medal of gold.  Their life is one of constant training, a regimen most of us couldn’t, or wouldn’t endure.  Yet their physical prowess will fade with age and the medals and awards will be only a reminder of what they used to be.

   Musicians spend hours in practicing their instrument.  To gain a seat in a noted orchestra is a goal that demands much.  Often they begin taking lessons as young children, foregoing the normal activities of childhood.  Their goal requires absolute devotion to the constant development of their talents.

   The same is true in many other endeavors.  To reach the desired goal requires discipline, devotion and a determination to succeed.  Many forfeit so much of their lives to attaining those goals and many will fail.  They believe the effort to try is worth the pain and even the possibility of failure.

   But what of the goal of eternal life in the kingdom of God?  How much time and effort are we putting into attaining the one goal that all can win?  Are we willing to forego the pleasures and desires of this world to win eternal life or are we Sunday Christians, going to church on Sunday and little or nothing else throughout the week?

   Will we be able to join St. Paul in saying, “I have fought the good fight to the end; I have run the race to the finish; I have kept the faith; all there is to come now is the crown of righteousness reserved for me, which the Lord, the righteous judge, will give to me on that Day; and not only to me but to all those who have longed for his Appearing.” (2 Tim 4: 7 – 8)