"He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away.”And he who was seated on the throne said, “Behold, I am making all things new.” Also he said, “Write this down, for these words are trustworthy and true.”" Revelation 21:4, 5
While talking with a long time friend after completing a hard and hilly run last weekend, my friend informed me that the event was her 59th half marathon and was done specifically on that day to celebrate her 59th birthday taking place the following morning. When she revealed that the course had really challenged her and that these races were getting more difficult, we discussed how her running (and mine) had changed throughout the years due to things like age, pain and injuries. Amidst our discussion, she looked at me intently and said, "You know there will be a day when I can no longer do this." To which I replied, "Yes, but today is not that day and for that we will be grateful." As she smiled, we both knew, as everyone eventually will, that there will indeed come a day when we will not be able to do the things we once enjoyed.
You know the Bible tells us of a day that's coming too-a day when there will be no more pain, crying or sadness, a day when every tear will be wiped from our eyes and death will be no more. And for anyone who is now experiencing physical suffering, sorrow, heartache or despair, this is a wonderful promise isn't it? You see, for all those that believe in Christ, there is an eternal place of rest waiting where the cares of this world, with it's difficulties and discomforts, will pass away and we will be made new. The promise is so real that God commanded John to write it down, "for these words are trustworthy and true."
When it comes to pain, C.S. Lewis wrote, "Hardships often prepare extraordinary people for an extraordinary destiny..." If that is true then may we patiently endure the afflictions, misfortunes and sufferings of this world knowing there will be a day and a destiny where they will be no longer be felt.
Heavenly Father, thank you for your many blessings. Help us to realize that many of those blessings come disguised in the form of trials, tribulation and pain but are being used to glorify your name in ways we could never dream of and never do in the absence of affliction. Help us to be strong, patient and faithful as we look to you and wait for the day when your promise of eternal rest will be fulfilled. It's in your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen.
Happy Running!!!
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There will be a day - Jeremy Camp
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