Cross-country Running

At that time Jesus declared, “I thank you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, that you have hidden these things from the wise and understanding and revealed them to little children; yes, Father, for such was your gracious will. All things have been handed over to me by my Father, and no one knows the Son except the Father, and no one knows the Father except the Son and anyone to whom the Son chooses to reveal him. Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” (Matthew 11:25-30 ESV).

This year my granddaughter, Faith, ran cross country. While you would think that the courses would be flat and relatively unchallenging in Texas, the truth was they were very hilly and often difficult to run the requisite two miles without a significant effort and technique. In the hot afternoon, sometimes topping the 100 degree heat index, it was only the strongest and smartest runners who managed to navigate the course. Faith did very well in this first year of her cross country experience. Perhaps the most important skill she learned was the pace of the run. There were some runners who would begin the race at a sprint. They were not the eventual winners. In fact, some of those racers were unable to even finish without walking as they made the turn at the one mile marker. Spiritually we can learn from this example. There is no doubt that the frenetic demands of life seems to continually increase stress and worry. There seems to be no end to the demands on our time and energy. It is important that we learn the pace of our spiritual life. We accomplish this by partnering with One who has already run the race and won the victory. He is willing to come along side us and help with the burdens of our lives. Jesus declares that he can teach us a new way to pull the load of our lives. This way isn’t one that offers escape from the demands of life, but one that guarantees rest in the midst of the race and the fast pace of life. Jesus says, “Come to me if you are tired and burdened. I’ll make your load lighter, and help you carry your burden.” Jesus offers us rest amidst the stress. Christ doesn’t always take us out of life’s demanding situations. Instead, He invites us to allow Him to help us handle the demands. He wants to face each day and each challenge with us. Walking with Jesus Christ daily and trusting Him for guidance and wisdom to handle whatever comes, is the way to experience rest in the race. Turn to him today and let him show you how to run to win.