Get Back in the Race

“However, I consider my life worth nothing to me; my only aim is to finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given me—the task of testifying to the good news of God’s grace.” Acts 20:24 NIV

In a story titled “Midnight rescue of injured fell runner” published by the BBC News yesterday, it was reported that a fell runner had to be rescued at midnight after suffering a suspected ankle fracture.

"We wish the fell runner a speedy recovery, and hope to see her back on the fells soon," a WRMT spokesperson said. The rescuers were aided by a team from Duddon and Furness, with the rescue itself taking about five hours and six minutes, they said. The woman had been taking part in an organised long distance event across the Burnmoor Tarn in Cumbria on 27 July, according to Wasdale Mountain Rescue Team. After finding the competitor amid rainy conditions, the team stretchered her to Brackenclose where she was put in an ambulance.

And you know, I have no doubt that this runner will get back in the race and be out on the fells as soon as she’s healed since fell runners (and runners in general) are known for their determination, their love of the sport, and their resilience. Likewise, this same determination and resilience was the very thing Luke aspired to show when he declared that his only aim was to finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus had given him—which was the commission of testifying to the good news of God’s grace. Because of his enormous love for the Savior, Luke’s greatest desire was to see people come to know Jesus and he would let nothing stop him. And that should be our greatest desire as well!

So, if you find yourself off mission today, take heart my friend. You’re not alone. Don’t stay where you are though. Brush yourself off and get back in the race knowing that completing “the task of testifying to the good news of God’s grace” until the end will reap rewards both here and in eternity.

Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us that a fall can’t take us out of the race if we are determined to finish and to stay faithful. Help us to keep our eyes on the finish line at all times Lord and to remember that only a life lived in service to You is a life worth living. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen.  

Happy Running!