KEEP RUNNIN'

Therefore, we also, since we e

surrounded by so great a cloud of 

witnesses, let us lay aside every

weight, and the sin which so

easily ensnares us, and let us

run with endurance the race that 

is set before us.

Hebrews 12:1

My Sunday school lesson was wrapped up for Sunday.  It is the first of a new series on the Israelites heading out for the Promised Land.  It was timely.  I had noticed posted signs in our neighborhood regarding a half marathon race that was going to be happening.  The participants were to run passing my front porch. I hadn't witnessed such a thing but thought I would sit on the porch and watch the spectacle.

 I'm not sure where the race started because many racers looked like they had been running for awhile.  The interesting thing for me was in seeing the variety of racers.  Some I was concerned about racing because they looked like they should have been on a front porch like me.

The variety of racers  was a good example  of common ordinary American citizens.  The youngest racer I figure to be in first grade.  Her daddy was right there with her.  There were others who were younger.  They were in strollers on riding on their dad's shoulders.  The oldest racer I would guess to be around 70 years of age.  There were very few of those.  Some racers were in good shape, looking like exercise was a part of their lives.  A few even seemed to be on the professional side of running.  Most were just average folks.  Some looked like they were wondering what they had gotten themselves into.  There was obesity represented that caused concern.  Three ladies, good friends were dressed alike in their pink ballerina outfits with decent length skirts.

Some folks ran, some walked apace while others shuffled for a time.  Many stopped to bend over.  I was surprised at the number of folks who ran while doing something on their cell phones.  That's pitiful but it's their thing, not mine.

I doubt very seriously the Israelites were a part of such a spectacle.  They and our racers had a few things in common...they were  headed for the finish line while maintaining life in the meanwhile.  Along with the is always the need for God's direction in lives.  As God directed His people back then, so is His desire to do the same in our day.  We don't have to be just running or walking though life.  He wants to direct us every step of the way.

Father, we are so blessed knowing You are always with us every step of our lives.  You desire our obedience in this life.  May we realize that our race in this life can be even more fulfilling with Your hand of love and leadership in our every day of earthly life.  In Jesus name....Amen