I used to run long distance races professionally. A wonderful feeling would come over me at about the 25 mile mark of a 26.2 mile marathon. I knew the finish line would soon be in sight. I would get excited and I would begin to step up the pace and find I still had a kick in me. I would find myself running the fastest mile split of the race. I would then see the finish line and I would begin an all out sprint to the finish! I would take a quick look behind and see that no one was in sight to challenge me or to take away my victory. The crowd on the sidelines would be erupting in applause. It was one of the greatest experiences in my life as I would fly across the finish line and break the tape.
That is the way I feel right now in my Christian walk. I know the finish line is near. The birth pangs of contractions are getting closer and closer. Matthew 24, Luke 21 and Mark 13 are coming alive. The Book of Revelation is at the door of being fulfilled. I must be at my strongest in my walk with the Lord and not fall victim to the falling away. I must lift up and encourage my brothers and sisters in the Lord. I must preach the Gospel to the lost as if today is their last day.
Hebrews 12:1-2 reminds us, “Therefore we also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith.” Philippians 3:14 declares, “ I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.” 1 Corinthians 9:24 encourages us, “Do you not know that those who run in a race all run, but one receives the prize? Run in such a way that you may obtain it.”
I see the finish line ahead. Jesus is waiting for me. I hear all my loved ones that have gone before me going wild on the sidelines and cheering me on. My questing is, “Do you hear and see the same things I do?” If not, now is the time to get back in the race. With Jesus it is never too late. The finish line is within sight!
Annointing 