We must Complete the Job

“For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ, for it is the power of God to salvation for everyone who believes, for the Jew first and also for the Greek.” Romans 1:16 NKJV

As is my custom at every race I'm blessed to direct, I asked all the runners to step up to the start line five minutes before the beginning of Saturdays' 12-hour Racing for Daylight (which began at 6:00 p.m.) for a briefing of the course and some final instructions. With that being done, I then said, "We open up every race with prayer. It's your choice whether or not you want to join us, but I ask that everyone bow their heads." I then proceeded to boldly give thanks to the Lord for the beautiful day He had given us—and also for the strength in our bodies, the air in our lungs, and the ability to run the race set before us, before then praying protection over the runners, and ending the prayer with a heartfelt and passionate "it's in your precious Name we pray Jesus, Amen." 

And while I realize it's just a matter of time before someone will protest this public acknowledgement of faith in Jesus Christ, I also fully understand that "the gospel of Christ... is the power of God to salvation for everyone who believes" and I am neither afraid nor ashamed to share it. In fact, like Paul, I am compelled to preach the Good News because I know that only those who call on the name of the Lord will be saved. Which begs the questions, "How, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them?" The answer is they can't. Which means each and every believer has a job to do and must take advantage of every opportunity they have to do it. 

So don't be ashamed or afraid to share the only News that has the power to save my friend. It's the assignment of each and every believer to do so everywhere they go, with everyone they come into contact with, and by whatever set of circumstances God provides to make it possible.

Heavenly Father, thank You for the opportunities You give us to show others that we are believers in You. In a world where Christians are shrinking back from their part in fulfilling the Great Commission because of fear, help our boldness and courage inspire them to be strong and courageous as well. Lord, compel us use every opportunity we have to give You glory and praise and to share the Good News so we can complete the job You have given us. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!