A huge part of the race is solidifying your identity in Christ. In order to do this, you have to realize areas where you have misplaced your identity and surrender those areas to Jesus as well. One huge part of my identity that I see in every day of my life is that I am an athlete. Deep down in my core I will always believe this to be true. Even when I’m old and unable to even walk without being exhausted I will still be an athlete. I’ve been a part of many teams that I’ve bonded with, fought with, cried with and rejoiced with. I’ve felt the joys of winning and the sorrows of defeat and given blood sweat and tears to a cause of only glory. But eventually being an athlete betrays you. No matter how much you believe it, there’s a point where you can no longer be on a team. There’s a point where no matter how good you used to be, your body no longer agrees. And even as you bask in your glory days, there’s an absence in your heart where that passion used to be.
But even greater, and even deeper in the core of my identity I am a Christian. I bear the name of Christ greater than any uniform I could ever wear. The sacrifice has already been made for me and my reward is not in any way dependent on my performance. I’ve overcome many trials through perseverance and faith. And someday I will have the ultimate reward of eternity with my savior as we all in unity sing**, “Holy, Holy, Holy is The Lord God almighty.”
It’s no coincidence to me that Hebrews compares our journey with Christ as a race. So much of the competitive world of sports mirrors my Christian life and has taught me about things like perseverance, determination, unity, community, passion, and yes, even Holy stubbornness when you want to give up but keep going. God uses every aspect of life to teach us and to bring us closer to him.
I wrote a really cool journal entry the other day about ways that God has been preparing me for the World Race throughout my entire life, even in small ways that seemed insignificant. And as I’m sure you’ve guessed, sports was a big part. From connecting with kids who speak another language with a soccer ball, to knowing how to live with a “team”, God has been preparing me for this journey my whole life. And I’m learning to embrace the rest of my life furthering the kingdom of God. My World Race will eventually come to an end, but Oh my real race is just beginning! It’s just month 6 and I’ve already learned so much. I’m so excited to keep running my current “race” until I’m fully trained and ready for the one after. Wherever and whatever that may be!
So current athletes, former athletes and fans… Until we are united with Christ, let’s strive for greatness every day to further the Kingdom of God.
Hebrews 12:1-2 NLT
[1] Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a huge crowd of witnesses to the life of faith, let us strip off every weight that slows us down, especially the sin that so easily trips us up. And let us run with endurance the race God has set before us. [2] We do this by keeping our eyes on Jesus, the champion who initiates and perfects our faith. Because of the joy awaiting him, he endured the cross, disregarding its shame. Now he is seated in the place of honor beside God’s throne.
**(Louder and greater than even “On, on U of K”!) 😉
