Acts 20:22-24
"And now, compelled by the Spirit, I am going to Jerusalem, not
knowing what will happen to me there. I only know that in every city the
Holy Spirit warns me that prison and hardships are facing me. However,
I consider my life worth nothing to me; my only aim is to finish the
race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given me—the task of
testifying to the good news of God’s grace."
Kati sprinted up the slight grade on North
Sandusky Street in Delaware (Columbus). She'd already trekked over six miles
and had six plus to go to reach the half-marathon mark of 13.1 miles. Along
with Kati and many other runners, a group of people accompanied individuals who
couldn't run the course by themselves. These inspiring people pushed their
friends' wheelchairs and helped them finish their race.
As I sat along the side of the street and
witnessed runner after runner complete the course, Paul's words in Acts came to
mind; "my only aim is to finish the race and complete the
task the Lord Jesus has given me." All Paul wished to do was finish
his service to Jesus, the race of his life. As a follower of Christ, I am right
there with Paul. But sometimes I need someone to run alongside me.
I can't quite wrap my mind around running so many steps
at one time. Even though I'm not able to physically run anymore, I can support
my family and friends who do. With positive words and just being present to boost their
spirit, I can support and cheer. Just like Paul who depended on his friends to
help him to the end of his race, we need each other's encouragement and the
Holy Spirit's urging to stay the course and cross the finish line. The race we
run for Jesus is filled with obstacles. But with a little help from our friends
and sustenance from God's word, we can finish the race "of testifying to
the good news of God’s grace." One step at a time wins!
Who can you encourage this week?