The Race

Growing up things were often challenging and when things got rough at home I would always leave the house to go for a run. I was often propelled by frustration or confusion. Despite the source, I remember running as fast as I could for as long as I could, which usually wasn't too far.  I didn't realize it, but this was the only way I had ever learned to 'deal' with things.

When I was in Jr. High one of my P.E. teachers noticed me running and recommended I join track. I was never a distance runner and to this day cannot run very far. I didn't realize I was any good at running at all, I just knew it always made everything better... or maybe I was just too tired to notice anything wrong.  I remember training and I still recall the coach giving us pointers and teaching us strategies. "Don't turn around, don't look to the right or left of you to see who's there and NEVER look behind you." All of these things would make you lose your concentration and seconds off of your time. All bad things! "We run to WIN!" I also remember that no matter how short your race, you should not give it your all until you get to the very last of the race and then that's when you give it all you have. This conserved energy and could win you the race.  I ran the 200 meter, not a long race but a race none-the-less. I was a sprint-runner.

As I was meditating and praying today, I was reminded of those races. It seems like a lifetime ago, but the principals haven't changed. We are in a race and we're almost at the end. I believe things are wrapping up, God is preparing His people for a place far greater than we've ever known, His coming is closer than it's ever been.

Turn not to the right hand nor to the left: remove thy foot from evil. (Proverbs 4:27)

He that dwelleth in the secret place of the Most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty.

He shall call upon me, and I will answer him: I will be with him in trouble; I will deliver him, and honour him. (Psalms 91:1,15)

He has made a way for us to make it to the end of the race - a winner.

... others may deny the Lord and live in sin, 

but the race that I have entered I must win, 

through those pearly gates I mean to enter in, 

I have settled the question forever.

I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith. (IITimothy 4:7)

MORE THAN ANYTHING... WE'VE GOT TO MAKE IT!!

Heaven WHATEVER the cost. Will I see you there?

Let's make plans to meet... beside the river.