Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us,
Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God. Hebrew 12:1-2
Willadsen School
When I was in elementary school, all the country school in the area would come together for a track meet. It was held at a larger country school near Granite and Harriman. It was fun to go to Willadsen school and spend the day competing in various events. We would train for the rely race and the broad jump. Ridley school were I went, was just a few miles from our ranch. I remember practicing and practicing passing the baton. I wasn't very athletic but I do remember trying my best.
When I read in Hebrews the other day for some reason I thought of the track meet at Willadsen. The metaphor of race is not a spiritual comparison that would most inspire me. But now that I am older and a little wiser, I know that the race in the Bible is not a rely race or broad jump. It's more like a marathon, and the object in this life is to endure and finish! It's doesn't matter if I run or jog, as long as I make over the finish line. The point is to finish and not give up.
I grateful for the fans in the bleachers along the way, my family, my friends, and my Savior who are always there cheering me on.
Jesus Christ doesn't care about sleek bodies, rippling muscles, or perfect form. Endurance is what the Coach is after. Commitment, determination-staying the course, keeping the faith, and hopefully enjoying the journey.
I want Cash, Colby, Grey, and Grahm to know that I will always be in the bleachers cheering them on. I will help them get up if they fall so they can finish the race. I also hope that if they fall and I am not there, they will rely on there own strength and faith to get up and finish. I hope they never feel alone and that they will feel the Savior's love for them.
The trophy, the "prize" won't be engraved with "First Place Winner" but with "Faithful to the End."
Know ye not that they which run in a race run all, but one receiveth the prize? So run, that ye may obtain. I Corinthians 9:24
And see that all these things are done in wisdom and order; for it is not requisite that a man should run faster than he has strength. And again, it is expedient that he should be diligent, that thereby he might win the prize; therefore, all things must be done in order. Mosiah 4:2
