Go for Gold? (Part 2)

What does it take to win gold in the Christian race? Behind every gold medal is a lifetime of training, hard work, commitment and sacrifice. The joy that we witness in tears as athletes receive what they have worked for their whole life, the sadness that we witness in tears as athletes miss out on what they have worked for their whole life, reveals the value of that gold.

What does it take to win the Christian race? Paul points to a few key aspects. In 1 Corinthians 9:24-27, Paul points to self-control. In Galatians 2:2, it requires not listening to those who will lead us astray, and later in that same letter, Galatians 5:7 (and in Philippians 2:16), he points to the possibility that we may have to run in vain when it comes to the Christian life. This is a right warning to make sure we watch our lives. In 2 Timothy 2:5, this watching of our lives is according to the rules which would be making sure that our lives fit in line with the gospel. Further, Philippians 3:13-14 has a future focus and a past forgetfulness. My assumption is this past and future dynamic points to both the power of forgiveness but also the future that God has in store for us as he works in us and prepares a place for us. The author of the Letter to the Hebrews clarifies this past and present focus as a focus on Christ with a further encouragement to rid our lives of sin or things that get in the way of running. Finally, 2 Timothy 4:7 points to perseverance as a key aspect of our Christian journey. What these passages reveal are wonderful descriptions for us as Christians to examine our lives and make changes accordingly.

There is much more that could be said about the Christian life, but the Christian life as a race helps us understand what it means to both repent and believe, to follow Christ, to give up all in exchange for that pearl of great value. It won’t be gold, but the prize we run for in the Christian life is far more valuable than gold.

By Rev. Craig McCorkindale