We're all on a mission

"Again Jesus said, “Peace be with you! As the Father has sent me, I am sending you. And with that he breathed on them and said, “Receive the Holy Spirit.” John 20:21-22 NIV

Like thousands of other runners around the world this weekend, I will be joining friends to complete the Marine Corps Marathon virtually while countless others will be running the streets of Arlington, VA for the in-person event taking place on Saturday. Nicholas Panebianco will be one of those runners as reported by Channel 4 in Washington. Described as a "Man on a Mission," Nicholas is set on completing his 100th marathon that day and says he takes his races very seriously. “It is a lot about believing that you can finish, staying strong mentally and taking it a piece at a time,” said Panebianco, who trains for his marathons year-round. Although Panebianco is unaware of how many more races he would like to run, he is sure this weekend’s marathon will not be his last. Nicholas went on to say, "I’m amazed every time I cross the finish line. I truly am. And I don’t take it for granted.”

And you know, when it comes to undertaking a task that one considers to be a very important duty, each and every believer should be "on a mission" as well; a mission to continue the work of Jesus on this earth. This was something Jesus made very clear when He said to the disciples, "As the Father has sent me, I am sending you." After having said that, Jesus then breathed on them and said, “Receive the Holy Spirit." Christ not only made their mission clear, a mission that is of the greatest importance and given to every believer, but He gave them the Holy Spirit to enable them to carry out that mission. 

So knowing that we have received the same Holy Spirit that was in Jesus and in the disciples, the same Spirit that empowered and enabled them to do the Father's will, let us make every effort to fulfill the most important duty anyone could ever be called to complete. Let us continue the work that Jesus began by imitating Him until the day He calls us home or until we reach the final finish line, not slowing down in our pursuit to do so for even one moment. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us that we have a duty to preach the Good News and to minister to the lost and hurting. Remind us again Lord that You have given us the Holy Spirit to direct, guide, comfort, strengthen, and embolden us to be hardworking, courageous men and women intent on fulfilling the mission You have given us. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!