Finish the Race

"Do you see what this means-all these pioneers who blazed the way, all these veterans cheering us on? It means we'd better get on with it. Start running and never quit. Keep your eyes on Jesus, who both began and finished the race we're in."
~Hebrews 12:1-2 (MSG)

Carson completed his first triathlon this weekend that was organized and put on by the Hood County YMCA and we are so proud of him for competing. There was a lot of work from volunteers and others that made it possible. Carson had fun and was really excited and tired when he finished. It was amazing to see.

I believe he was able to finish for three reasons. First, he trained. Kathy and I trained with Carson to get him ready by swimming, biking, and running with him. (Kathy more so than me) Sometimes he didn't want to train or complained about it but he pushed through did it almost every time. Second, he had support and encouragement along the way. On race day, as family we were not able to bike or run with him. Although I would have liked to be with him it was okay that I wasn't. Our family and friends came to wish him well at the beginning of the race and congratulate him when he finished. Along the way there were over a hundred YMCA volunteers who helped him and cheered him on from beginning to end. Third, he had to set his eyes on the finish. The goal was to reach the finish line and because of training and encouragement he reached that goal.

I believe that our faith is very similar. In order to get to the finish, or where we want to be, we must train. We must pray, study, read, worship, serve, and surround ourselves with other believers (and non-believers) to strengthen our faith. It is also important to have support and encouragement along the way. The book of Hebrews talks about being surrounded by a cloud of witnesses and others cheering us on. Both of these are important. We must learn from others who have been on their faith journey longer than we have and we must have people supporting us as we continue to grow. I would not be in seminary and on the path to ordination without learning from people like Rod, Dixie, and Boyd. I would not be on this path without the support of my family and friends. (In fear of forgetting someone I will not list the numerous names here :)  Lately I have kind of chuckled when someone says "Rev Kev" but I would not be on this path without the support of loved ones. I must run the race with perseverance with my eyes fixed upon Jesus. That is the goal. The training and support and encouragement allows me to continue to strive to reach that goal of knowing Jesus.

I believe my faith is a lot like Carson and his triathlon. In order for me to grow in faith I need to train and have support and encouragement so I can reach my ultimate goal. In order for Carson to finish the race he needed to train and he needed the support and encouragement of others. He got that support and encouragement and he finished the race. One day I will finish the race too...and I'm not talking about an actual foot race, because I am not a runner.

I'm proud of Carson for finishing the first of what I hope are many races.

Grace & Peace
Kevin