Your Crown Awaits
“Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience 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 is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.” Hebrews 12:1-2
In 490 B.C., the Athenians won a crucial and decisive battle over the forces of King Darius I of Persia, on a plain near the Greek coastal town of Marathon.
Upon delivering the important message of this crucial victory, the Greek soldier who came to tell the good news died – he had completed the 26 mile course running and bearing good news, and he did it totally unreserved until the moment he died.
Today marathons are run all over the world, commemorating that very event 2500 years ago.
Anyone who has run a marathon can tell you how difficult the race is. No matter how good you are, how well trained, how prepared, there are times in the race you just want to quit. But those who persevere till the end receive a prize.
Back in King Darius’ day, one would win only a crown made of laurel leaves. Today, athletes compete for trophies and medals. But in God’s race, we win something far more precious – a crown that is incorruptible.
Maybe you too are tired or overworked, maybe you are stressed and overwhelmed. Please be encouraged!
Just when you think you can’t run any further, you can!
Press through and press on for the great prize! God is with us, strengthening our feeble knees and moving us in the right direction!