The Race by Max Lucado

"The word race is from the Greek word agon, from which we get the word agony. The Christian’s race is not a jog but rather a demanding and grueling, and sometimes agonizing race. It takes a massive effort to finish strong."

"Likely you’ve noticed that many don’t. There are many on the side of the trail. They may come to church, but their hearts aren’t in the race. And unless something changes, their best work will have been their first work, and they will finish with a whimper."

"By contrast Jesus’ best work was his final work, and his strongest step was his last step. Our Master is the classic example of one who endured. The writer of Hebrews says that Jesus “held on while wicked people were doing evil things to him” (Hebrews 12:3 NCV). Jesus could have quit the race, but he didn’t. Let’s stay in the race, shall we? And let’s finish strong."

From Mike: For a number of years I was a runner. Runner is not really a accurate description. Plodding is a better description. My first race was a 10K, 6.2 miles. I was only half way through when the winner finished!! I was in agony!

Running is no longer a test for me. I was plodding in 2015 when the stroke hit. Any endurance I ever had for plodding is gone. I'm still plodding in my Christian life however and Satan is constantly urging me to quit trying. He cares nothing about me. He only wants me join him in Hell some day. This is not a race that any of us can give up on.

God Bless!

Mike