Run Forrest, Run!

Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin that so easily ensnares us and let us run with endurance 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 sat down at the right hand of the Throne of God. . . You have not yet resisted to bloodshed, striving against sin . . . Therefore, strengthen the hands that hang down, and the feeble knees, and make straight the paths for your feet, so that what is lame may not be dislocated, but rather healed. (Hebrews 12:1-4,12-13)

The image is that of runner who would throw off his robe and outer clothing to run without hinderance. A runner today is constantly examining his gear; shoes, running outfit, spikes, even body hair! If anything slows him down, even for tenths of seconds, he will remove or change it. If something can make him faster, he will try it. Some will even bend the rules! 

The writer of Hebrews encourages us to look for the examples of the past and observe their life and how they endured for Christ. We have yet to face the kinds of trials they faced, yet we do face challenges. At times they seem like mountains . . . Terrible storms . . . Challenges that have no end in sight. Yet, as with Moses, Joshua, David, Paul, and others, even our Savior, we will endure as we keep focused on the goal . . . The  finish line! We must do whatever it takes to honor God.

The joy of our salvation . . completing the task . . .  allowed Jesus to look past the cross and to the end result. Despite all He went through, it was worth the shame, the pain, and the embarrassment. We were worth it. 

What is the goal for you and me? Is it worth the struggle? Hang in . . . Jesus knows our struggles. He is here. He cares. He will take us through. Just take the first step . . .