2 Timothy 4:7-8
I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day — and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for His appearing.
Much of the world is now focusing its attention on London, England and the 2012 Summer Olympic games. As I recall, there are 205 nations and 10,500 athletes that are competing for medals this year. Only a few of that number will emerge victorious. It somehow seems distressing that just a few will receive the prize they so desperately seek and for which they have devoted so much arduous training.
The marathon is a long-distance running event with an official distance of 42.195 kilometers (26 miles and 385 yards). At the end, the competitors have expended the last ounce of their energy.
My mind goes back to the 1984 Summer Olympic Games that were held in Los Angeles, California. It was the end of the Women’s Marathon and the competitors entered the stadium to complete the race by circling the track one time. One by one they entered and crossed the line. Then Gabriella Andersen-Schiess from Switzerland came through the tunnel and entered the arena. She was in 37th place and no medal would be awarded for her valiant effort. She was suffering from exhaustion and dehydration and could hardly remain on her feet. The crowd exploded with applause during her last painful steps. She crossed the line and was treated as a victor—because she was!!
We are all in a race to win the prize that God has promised to all who are His children and follow Him. It may seem that we cannot go another step, but hang on, dear heart. The finish line is just ahead and the hosts of heaven are cheering for us. VICTORY!
Blessings dear hearts. Draw near to God today, trust Him completely and be a blessing!
—Pastor Cecil