Run the Second Half Better

“By faith Rahab the prostitute did not perish with those who were disobedient, because she had given a friendly welcome to the spies." Hebrews 11:31 ESV

In a story titled, “Emily Sisson Sets American Marathon Record in Chicago” posted by Runner’s World yesterday, the following was reported: Emily Sisson set the American record in the marathon in Chicago on Sunday morning, running 2:18:29 and taking 43 seconds off the previous record of 2:19:12, run by Keira D’Amato in January in Houston. Sisson finished second behind Ruth Chepngetich of Kenya—who was just seconds off the women’s world record. Sisson, 30, ran a negative split. She hit her first half in 1:09:26, and her second half was 1:09:03. The writer went on to say, “Sisson mounted a furious final kick as she turned into Grant Park to shatter the record.” Do you just love that or what? Emily finished the second half of her race faster than the first half. 

And you know, when it comes to finishing the second half of a race better or quicker than the first half (aka a ‘negative split’), there is perhaps no greater story in the Bible of a person turning things around than Rahab. You see, Rahab spent the first part of her life as a prostitute in a wicked place that was under God's condemnation because of its' sinful pagan culture. But when Joshua and the spies were sent to investigate the city and were in danger of being killed, Rahab showed her faith by hiding them and trusting God to keep her and her family safe. Because of that, Rahab was no longer viewed as a prostitute but as a dearly loved woman worthy to be part of the lineage of our Savior Jesus Christ.

And you know what? As the story of Rahab shows, there's no sin too great that a person can't repent of to get that ‘negative split’ because once we choose to follow Christ, our pasts no longer matter. The slate is wiped clean and we are free to run the race better than the way we began it.

Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us that there is hope for every lost sinner if they would only make the decision to turn from their sinful life and to turn to You. Help us to understand that not only was Rahab restored and redeemed once she chose to trust You as her Savior, but she was used in a big and mighty way just as we can be if we make the determination to get that negative split. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!