PENTECOST XII
August 15, 2021
“Races and Runners”
“Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight and the sin that clings so closely, and let us run with perseverance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus the pioneer and perfecter of our faith, who for the sake of the joy that was set before him endured the cross, . . . and has taken his seat at the right hand of the throne of God.” (Hebrews 12:18)
After watching a variety of Olympic events on TV over the two weeks of coverage, I’m once again impressed and thrilled by the variety of skill, strength, speed, and dedication to excellence shown by these athletes. The training regimens and self-discipline are rigorous, and it’s apparent that these young people have worked extremely hard to achieve their goals.
Media coverage brought these young people into our living rooms, and whether they were swimmers, runners, gymnasts, fencers, you name it — almost the first words they spoke were to thank their parents, coaches, friends, and teammates for their encouragement and support. You never heard anyone declare that they had succeeded all on their own, with no help from anyone. The humility and appreciation for all that others had done to make their accomplishments possible was a heart-warming reminder of how much we all need one another, world-class athletes or not.
These verses from the Letter to the Hebrews don’t express concern with winning a race, but rather running with perseverance. The important thing is to stick with it, to do our best, and remember that we have the example of Jesus himself, who stayed the course to which he had committed. To me, the expression of “great cloud of witnesses” brings to mind both those loved ones who brought me to the faith, as well as those who, throughout history, taught, shared, and spread the Good News. Their example strengthens and encourages us to this day, as we are called to use the resources and gifts we have been given to serve all in need, sharing God’s love with all people.
“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. From now on there is reserved for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, will give me on that day.” (2 Timothy 4:7-8a)
The writer of Second Timothy references the Apostle Paul, who although he was suffering in prison, spoke of the end of his life as a triumph. He isn’t saying that he has earned salvation, but he is secure in the knowledge that he has followed his calling faithfully. He has a sense of completeness, of having finished the race and kept the faith. For that he is not boastful, but grateful, as his strength and ability have been gifts from God.
So we are continually encouraged, whether by the good news in God’s own word, or by our brothers and sisters in Christ, as we continue to persevere, to keep the faith, to trust that we are following the example of Jesus himself.
Glad to be “on the team”
Your friend in Christ,
Mary Rogers