No bid necessary

"Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us," Hebrews 12:1

Ever wanted to run with the "elites" of running? Those superstars of the running world like Deena Kastor who set the Masters Record (2:27:47) at the Chicago Marathon last year? Well now you have a chance to bid for the opportunity to do what CARA (Chicago Area Runners Association) describes as a "once in a lifetime" event where the winner, "basically gets to every point with the elites". But with the bid starting at $1,500, your dream of running the Chicago Marathon with the "best" will certainly cost you.

The bible tells us of an even greater opportunity that you and I have to run with the "elites" of the Kingdom, those faithful men and women that have gone before us, who by perseverance finished the race, and now serve as witnesses to the power of Christ in their lives... the same power available to us. Hebrews 12:1 says that "since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses... let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us". Paul didn't mean that those saints like Abraham, Isacc, Rahab, Mary Magdelane and David are running with us but that we are to look to their example and act as if they were in sight cheering and spurring us on as we pursue the same victory (and encounter the same trials) in the faith as they did.

So, may we "throw off" any burden or sin that keeps us from being like Christ and stop at nothing in our pursuit of living the life God has called us to. Thankfully we don't need to bid at the chance at this "once in a lifetime" event though. We can simply open up our Bibles and read the stories of perseverance as we set our eyes on finishing the "race marked out for us."

Heavenly Father, thank you for the faithful men and women that have gone before us to be examples to us. May we study them and how they were once lost but now found and how they endured trials, temptations, doubts and struggles in their lives but stayed focused on the goal of crossing that final finish line. May we always remember their example that we might not be disheartened at our circumstances but rather strengthened by their victory. It's in your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen.

Happy Running!!!
www.team413.org

I am a disciple

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sWDa_7Q9ryI

http://www.runnersworld.com/races/want-to-run-with-elites-in-chicago-it-will-cost-you