The G.O.A.T. Marathon
Hebrews 12:1–2
By Craig Hardee
Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God.
Eliud Kipchoge of Kenya recently ran the first sub two-hour marathon, a time which many believed would never be broken. He had a lot of help. The race organizers chose a day within a nine-day window so that he could run at optimal time. Kipchoge also ran with 36 “pacemakers,” who would run in front of him in groups of five in a V-shape to provide a wind break for him. Two runners also ran behind him. Drinks and snacks were delivered to him by a bicyclist, so Kipchoge didn’t have to break stride to receive them.
But while it was impressive, it was not the G.O.A.T. (Greatest Of All Time) marathon.
Instead, we as Christians run the G.O.A.T. marathon every day of our lives! We are surrounded by a great cloud of witnesses and are encouraged to run with endurance the race set before us.
Best of all, our path has been prepared by Jesus, the founder and finisher of our faith, who died for our sins and rose victorious over the grave. He is seated at the right hand of the throne of God right now, cheering us on as we run the G.O.A.T. marathon.
As we wrap ourselves in the hustle and bustle this time of year brings, let us make sure that our focus is on the birth of our Savior and Lord, Jesus Christ. He has come before us, preparing the way so we may have eternal life. Let us celebrate Jesus this season!
Lord, we thank you for sending Jesus to earth to die for our sins and to prepare the way for us. Help us to run with endurance, focused on Jesus daily, as we live our lives for Him.