Dannette's Devotional: Let's Race Together

Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses,

let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles.

And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us

Hebrews 12:1

I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.

Philippians 3:14

And we urge you, brothers and sisters, warn those who are idle and disruptive,
encourage the disheartened, help the weak, be patient with everyone.

1 Thessalonians 5:14

Anticipation filled the air.  It didn’t matter that the athletes were burdened with wheelchairs, poor eyesight, and other disabilities.  The Gateway Games near St. Louis was their moment to shine.  The final event was a 5K competition: 12 long laps around the track for two wheelchair athletes who had already competed in earlier races.  The young man easily took the lead and continued gaining distance until he crossed the finish line.  But he didn’t stop to rest and enjoy his win.  He returned to the track and caught up with his competitor.  He wheeled alongside, encouraging her for 5 more laps, until she crossed the finish line too. 

The remaining spectators were on our feet screaming.  We cheered for the young lady who persevered to the end and the young man who stayed on the track to encourage his competition.  Both were true winners, racing despite their disabilities. 

Nephew Kory Running in the Paralymptics Trials at the Gateway Games in St. Charles Last May

Do you feel too overwhelmed to start what God is calling you to do?  Remember, God will help you.  Do you feel like giving up?  Remember, God will strengthen you to persevere.   Are you finishing in the lead?  Reach back and encourage those behind you.  God is calling us to all race together toward His prize.

Dannette McKellar