A lifetime endeavor

"No, dear brothers and sisters, I have not achieved it, but I focus on this one thing: Forgetting the past and looking forward to what lies ahead, I press on to reach the end of the race and receive the heavenly prize for which God, through Christ Jesus, is calling us." Philippians 3:13-14

It was announced last week that legendary American runners Joan Benoit Samuelson and Deena Kastor will compete in the 38th running of the Bank of America Chicago Marathon in October. Both athletes will be returning to Chicago to commemorate the anniversaries of their victories - Benoit Samuelson broke the record in 1985 and it stood until 2003 when it was broken by Kastor. “My goal has always been to run as fast as I can for as long as I can,” said Benoit Samuelson. “I continue to challenge myself with new goals and look within myself for the story I want to tell at the race."

What a testimony to what a lifetime of running can do. The race director said, "These two athletes have inspired, and continue to inspire, generations of runners." Just like these runners who, after winning once didn't stop, we are to make a lifetime of serving Christ, focused on this one thing: forgetting the past and looking forward to what lies ahead. We must never rest on our past or current accomplishments but continually press on to reach the end of the race to receive a prize greater than any worldly competition could ever offer.... the heavenly prize for which God, through Christ Jesus, is calling us.

By doing so, not only will we receive an eternal prize, but we may inspire generations of people to do the same. May it be said of us that we let nothing and noone stand in our way of the goal. No dear brothers and sisters, we have not achieved it. But we can if we stay focused.

Heavenly Father, thank you for the examples of those pioneers who have gone before us showing us that it is not only possible to serve you with all we have, it is the most fulfilling thing we could ever do. Help us to stay focused on the prize at all times, looking forward to what lies ahead and always pressing on until we reach the end of the race and spend eternity with You. What a prize that will be! It's in your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen.

Happy Running!!!
www.team413.org

Press on - Building 429

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9pv5wVS7yzk

http://finance.yahoo.com/news/running-legends-joan-benoit-samuelson-140000011.html;_ylt=AwrBT83BZ6RVMjAAnztXNyoA;_ylu=X3oDMTEzOGFmdWM2BGNvbG8DYmYxBHBvcwMxBHZ0aWQDVklQNjE3XzEEc2VjA3Nj