As the winter high school sports season nears its end, the excitement steadily builds with each passing day, signaling the onset of the state tournaments. It's a time I look forward to each year, observing the passion that surrounds the teams as they prepare for their moment in the spotlight. If you need me over the next few weeks, I'll be watching the competition. Much like the challenging journey of a marathon runner, this period is marked by long hours of practice, dedication, and numerous sacrifices, all culminating in a single, defining moment of competition
Recently, I had the privilege of watching my nieces' participation in the state tournament for dance. It was the peak of their season-long commitment and unwavering dedication, condensed into a mere two minutes and thirty seconds on the floor. The intensity and pressure of the moment were unmistakable, mingling with the excitement of seeing their hard work pay off.
In the midst of this whirlwind of excitement and tension, I'm reminded of the parallels from Paul's words in 1 Corinthians. He describes the commitment of an athlete, the perseverance and disciplined effort, in striving towards a goal:
1 Corinthians 9:24-27 "Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize. Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training. They do it to get a crown that will not last, but we do it to get a crown that will last forever. Therefore I do not run like someone running aimlessly; I do not fight like a boxer beating the air. No, I strike a blow to my body and make it my slave so that after I have preached to others, I myself will not be disqualified for the prize."
The perspective Paul offers goes beyond the sporting arena, it encompasses the journey of life. While the prize coveted by high school athletes may be the championship trophy, offering fleeting satisfaction, our ultimate prize lies in the promise of eternity in heaven with Jesus. Unlike earthly praises that leave us longing for the next adventure, the reward of a life lived in alignment with Jesus satisfies all other rewards.
In this season of intense preparation and fierce competition, let us not lose sight of the everlasting prize that awaits us, motivating us to run the race with perseverance and purpose, both on and off the field.