Simply too hard

"Enter by the narrow gate. For the gate is wide and the way is easy that leads to destruction, and those who enter by it are many. For the gate is narrow and the way is hard that leads to life, and those who find it are few." Matthew 7:13,14

What do you do on a Saturday night when the heat index is well over 100 degrees? Run a 6-hour endurance race, properly named "Get your Butt Kicked on Route 66", of course. At least that's what many runners, including me, decided to do at 6:00 p.m. as we left the start line intent on completing as many of the 2.425 mile laps we could by midnight. As the night progressed though, it was apparent that many of the people who started the race would not finish it-it was simply too hard. Between the high temperatures, humidity and the darkness, many runners found themselves either not prepared, not properly trained or just not willing to endure the pain and dropped out of the race. 

When it comes to crossing the ultimate finish line and entering Heaven, the Bible tells us that it's not easy either. In fact, it's downright hard and those who wish to enter can do so only by the narrow gate That narrow way is hard because it demands sacrifice, self-denial, and a full dependence on Jesus acknowledging that we can do nothing to save ourselves and we are nothing apart from Him. It is giving up our goals, wants and desires to pursue those that Christ calls us to. Because that way for most is simply too hard, they will take the easy way, dropping out to pursue the world which has few rules or restrictions and requires no commitment or sacrifice.  

For all those that stayed the course that night, sacrificing sleep and comfort to reach the end, there was a medal waiting for them. But something even better than a medal that will not last is waiting for all those that believe, are saved and finish the race... an imperishable crown. Talk about a heavenly reward!

Heavenly Father, thank you for your many blessings, the biggest one being the gift of eternal life that is promised to every believer that chooses to follow you to the finish line. Give us strength Lord when we have none left and give us hope when we feel we can't go another step. Remind us that the reward awaiting us will be worth all the effort and sacrifice required to obtain it. It's in your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!
www.team413.org

The Victory - Third Day

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=32MRZvC_eqY

Getting ready to start and already sweating. 

Praise God that we all finished. What a great night! God's presence is so felt at night when there are no distractions. 

To God be the glory in all we do. Praying seeds were planted on the trail.