I’m not a big fan of the phrase “rat race” to describe our daily life. Now I realize rats are God’s creatures and they do serve medical and humanitarian purposes, but if you ask me God was having an “off day” when he gave us rats. (I’ll probably come back in my next life as a rat just for suggesting this.) But the analogy of our life as a race is not a bad one, I’d just leave off the “rat” part.
The analogy to a race goes as far back as Biblical times, and probably further.
Let us run with perseverance the race that is set before us. – Hebrews 12:1.
I find fascinating how the race that is “set before us” changes over time. When I was young the race seemed like a sprint requiring sudden bursts of energy and as in the high hurdles, obstacles were in the way one after the other. As time went on, I lost a little speed but gained endurance so the quarter and half mile are more analogous requiring both. I then moved on to the steeplechase where I had to learn to slow down to pace myself, and the hurdles seem higher and too often I found myself falling down in the water and the mud trying to hurdle that last barrier. Now as I am feeling really old, I am called on to sprint again. Time is moving too quickly and there are so many hurdles I have yet to jump before the finish line.
What race are you running? What race “is set before” you? These are the questions for today’s meditations, but be comforted he/she who runs the race will never tire as long as your guide is, and your faith is in, the Lord.
Editor’s Note: We continue to want to avoid advertising and becoming a subscription based site. We want it free and available to all. So if you are inclined to help with these goals please consider a small contribution ($5, $10, $25, every bit helps) either by clicking on the contribute button or sending a check to:
The Hubbell Pew, 820 East Kingston Ave., Charlotte, N.C. 28203. Thank You.
Leave a Reply +