My school recently took part in the annual co-ed event, competing against neighbouring schools in both sport and song. There is something deeply stirring about the pride, unity, and unwavering support students show for one another at athletics events, striving together toward victory.

 

I was on duty at the pavilion with the rest of our learners, singing school songs to compete for spirit and to support our athletes. In the middle of one song, something remarkable happened. Without warning, the singing stopped, replaced by loud cheering and thunderous applause. Startled and slightly confused, I turned toward the track to see what had drawn such a response.

 

One of our athletes was sprinting toward the finish line, chasing down a runner from another school. Against this roar from the stands, it was as though a fire was ignited within him. With renewed strength, he surged forward and crossed the line in first place. The crowd erupted with pride.

 

I paused and wondered what that moment must have felt like for him – hearing his school cheer him on. The sound was loud, passionate, electric. And you could see its effect: encouragement taking root, resolve rising, strength renewed for the final stretch.

 

Fellow child of God, we, too, are running a race toward a heavenward goal.

 

Like that athlete, there are moments when we must push beyond what feels possible, when the finish line seems distant and discouragement threatens to slow our pace. But unlike an earthly race, our outcome is not uncertain. If we keep our eyes fixed on Jesus, we are guaranteed victory. (Read Romans 8:37.)

 

Beloved, let us run with endurance the race set before us. God delights in every faithful step we take. He sees every struggle, every obstacle, every weary breath – and he is so proud.

 

As we press on, faithful to the course marked out for us, we do so with the promise that one day we will hear those precious words: “Well done, my good and faithful servant.”

 

So keep running. Keep pressing on. The whole of heaven is lifting its voice for you – cheering you on, all the way to the finish line.

 

Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank you for choosing me to run this race for your glory. Strengthen me to endure, and help me to keep my eyes fixed firmly on you. May I run in a way that honours you. In Jesus’ name, Amen.