Runner

 

I am running in the annual Cowtown 5-K race later this month. I used to run the 10-K but age and arthritis have convinced me to set my sights a little lower. I enjoy running in races. I’m slow but I like the challenge of trying to meet or beat a time goal that I set for myself. It also forces me to get into shape in preparing to run. When I’m running the longer distances, I appreciate the people who come out to shout encouragement to the runners, especially in the last mile or two. I also look forward to when I can see the finish line. It makes it so much easier to keep going when the end is in sight.

 

The author of the Letter to the Hebrews advised his readers, “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. Let us fix our eyes on Jesus…..so that you will not grow weary and lose heart” (Heb 12:1-3).

 

The great cloud of witnesses includes our family and other loved ones who have preceded us in heaven. Their prayers support us and help us even when we may not be aware of them. We are also supported by our family and loved ones who are still with us in this life. We, on the other hand, can support those around us in their Christian lives.

 

It’s also a good reminder to us that we need to keep our eyes fixed on Jesus, who is always there to lift us up and keep us going in the right direction.

 

There is a song by Twila Paris entitled “Runner” that always lifts me up. May it bless you as well.

 

Courier valiant, bearing the flame
Messenger noble, sent in His name
Faster and harder, run through the night
Desperate relay, carry the light, carry the light

Runner when the road is long
Feel like giving in, but you're hanging on
Oh runner, when the race is won
You will run into His arms

Obstacle ancient, chilling the way
Enemy wakened, stoking the fray
Still be determined, fearless and true
Lift high the standard, carry it through, carry it through

Runner when the road is long
Feel like giving in, but you're hanging on
Oh runner, when the race is won
You will run into His arms

Mindful of many waiting to run
Destined to finish, what you've begun
Millions before you cheering you on
Godspeed dear runner, carry it home, carry it home

Runner when the road is long
Feel like giving in, but you're hanging on
Oh runner, when the race is won
You will run into His arms