The Christian life is often described as a race and the thought has sometimes disturbed me. Don't get me wrong.. I like to compete and win.... but it has always seemed somewhat cold and worldly to me and reminds me of the survival of the fittest. That wonderful Darwinian principle is not a way I would choose to describe the lives of believers.
This week, I saw a wonderful picture of how I have always pictured Christian encouragement. Oddly enough, it came from a reality show-- The Biggest Loser. The contestants were engaged in a grueling challenge-- a competition involving swimming, running, cycling, more running and then running up the stairs of a 44 story building. The two leaders were very competitive with each other and Ali (?) was in front for much of the race, but very aware that her competitor, Mark (?) was close on her heels. He passed her towards the end, reaching the stairs before her, and taking the lead. Both were physically and emotionally exhausted as we watched them struggle up the staircase. As Mark (?) moved towards the last steps that would have led him to victory, however, he did something unexpected. He sat down on the top steps, waiting for Ali to join him. He simply said, he knew he would enjoy his "victory" much more if he was sharing it with Ali, rather than standing on top of that building alone. She was astonished to find him there and he laughed and had her carry him across the finish line on her back. Both were able to savor their victory over weight struggles and a lack of fitness. One by one, the other racers showed up until all but one were there at the end. Then, they turned together back towards the stairs to encourage the last runner--- calling her name out and meeting her so they could cross the finish line with her. I had tears in my eyes by the end of this display... and all I could think was... LORD, help us to run in this same manner. Pushing ourselves, loving You with all we have and not forgetting the others around us following you through the struggles of this world. Give me Your eyes and heart- to see those and to turn back to run with them.
God sure finds us in unexpected places to show us His life and truth! Let's keep running together!
If one falls down, his friend can help him up. But pity the man who falls and has no one to help him up! Ecclesiastes 4:10 (NIV)
