Verse:
"Do you not know that in a race the runners all compete, but only one receives the prize? Run in such a way that you may win it."
Thought:
Enrollment: 369 to 1001. The biggest, the smallest, face to face. There would
be one to walk away with the ultimate prize and there would be one knowing they have a prize of
their own. This last week was the Texas Boy's High School Basketball Championships. The
Class 3A Championship game allowed Tatum High School (369) to face Everman
High School (1001). While there, an interesting mantra seemed
to be claimed by both teams. While they claimed the 1 Corinthians passage above, they also looked
to Romans for hope, "If God is for us, who is against us?" So what happens when two are
competing against one another, claiming the same hope from God?
Hear the Good News, when we strive for the prize, as we should, there should be no regrets because
we were faithful. Paul addressing the question of who is or could be against us never dismisses the
fact that we will face adversaries throughout our life. Life in Christ does not remove trouble,
temptation or even loss. Life in Christ does not guarantee wins in the competitions
of this world. It
Does guarantee victory though. How? Our victories come as we see that we remain faithful in how we
are and what we are about. Our victories come as our character is strengthened, as our faith grows
and as we remain true to God. I for one recognize the Tatum High School Basketball team as Victors.
The town, the school and the students are all victors. We all ran the race to win, giving our all.
Would I have been, could I have been any prouder of these boys, the coaches? I don't think so.
Could the town, probably not.
Prayer:
Generous and gracious God, thank You for opening my eyes to that which is true. You inspire and drive me, allowing me give my all in life and living. Please help me to the victories in my life, regardless of the "wins" or "loses". I desire to look to You in all I do, that my life is faithful to the calling and the race You place before me. Thank You for all you have done in my life and all you will continue to do, for I come to You through Jesus Christ, my Lord, my Savior! Amen.
Grace & Peace
David Banks