October 29-31, 2010
Hebrews 12
Pastor Wil Mouer
I love watching the Summer Olympics, especially the 100-yard dash. It’s awesome to see the amazing athletes sprint toward the finish line, running as if they are “floating on air.” One of the keys to their success is not to look to the right or left during the race. Sprinters must focus on the finish line and run their best.
Each of us is called by God to run a race. This race lasts a lifetime, because it’s not a sprint, but a marathon. Our responsibility is to keep focused on Christ and not get distracted.
We must also keep in mind that our personal race looks different than another person’s race. In Hebrews 12, the author encourages us to “run with perseverance the race marked out for us.” Christ has a unique race for each person, so there is no room for comparison or competition.
The scripture goes on to say, “let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith.” Our faith is strengthened throughout the journey of life.
Two takeaways to remember:
- Run the race that God has for you. Ask Him what that looks like and He will tell you.
- Fix your eyes on Jesus. Picture Him at the finish line cheering you on.
When asked about a historical figure (not from the Bible) that he would most like to meet, Grace Covenant’s student ministries director identified a discussion about the Reformation with Martin Luther, noting that “it would be interesting to compare that time with the present.”