The Completed Race

Therefore, run the race with endurance.

In this sermon, we moved from Hebrews 11 to Hebrews 12:1-2, where these two wonderful verses instructed us in the race that is set before us. The first verse paints the picture of an athlete who seriously prepares himself for a race or competition. We have a crowd of witnesses who cheer the athlete on. The athlete removes every encumbrance to running the race, and finally, there is a call to run with endurance.

However, we quickly become aware of our ability to run the race well. We know it does not take long before we come weary, discouraged, and in desperate need of help. That's where verse two becomes encouraging and instructive. We realize that since Christ already ran the race and won it, when we dwell in him, the victory is already secured. Running the race doesn't depend on how good we are, but on the reality that HE has won the race for us.

Reflection questions:

1. Do you have brambly sins that easily ensnare you, that you need to cast off? If so, how does fixing your eyes upon Jesus help you with this?

2. What does it look like to fix your eyes upon Jesus?

3. How does running the race knowing Jesus already won it for you help you today?