...let us run with perseverance, the race marked out for us fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith.

Hebrews 12:2

It takes a huge amount of desire, discipline and commitment to become an Olympian. The International Olympic Committee sets rules which must be followed closely by every Olympic hopeful, in order to qualify. The guidelines keep the games fair and safe.

The Christian faith similarly has rules that we must follow in order to run our race well. First, Paul says, we must run with perseverance. Some parts of the race will be challenging, that’s a guarantee (Mark 10:30) but God expects his children to persevere even in these difficult times, and to call on his strength to sustain us and help us stay in the race.

Secondly, Paul reminds believers to fix their eyes on Jesus. This is key! How often have you tripped up because you allowed your gaze to wander elsewhere? Jesus is the only perfect representation of the Kingdom of God (Hebrews 4:15). Fix your eyes on him and nothing will deter you from completing the race set out for you. However, look elsewhere and you’ll find yourself veering off your lane.

Just about now, you may be going through an incredibly difficult lap, Jesus knows, and he understands. Set your pace to cruise, and persevere while fixing your eyes on him, and he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion (Philippians 1:6). Every race eventually ends, and yours will too. At the finishing line, look out for the pioneer and perfecter of your faith, because he will be there to meet you and welcome you home.

Loving God, thank you for your ever-loving Presence in my life. I ask that you would strengthen me for this race, and help me to keep my eyes on you, not on friends or family, but only on your word. And then LORD, bring me safely home, when the time is right. I am depending on you. In Jesus’ name, Amen!