This morning I went on a jog, which has been a rare event over the last few years. Running is one activity that helps me spend time with God. I know how good the run is for my mind, body, and spirit, but just like this blog, I put it off to tomorrow’s tomorrow. “Take a lesson from the ants, you lazybones” (Proverbs 6:6, NLT.) I need to start today and stop putting off until tomorrow.
As I started my jog, my lazybones ached from months of neglect. I immediately wanted to start walking again. However, as a Marine and avid runner in the past, I know the truth in the saying “no pain, no gain.” As that statement rang in my ears I immediately went to another quote “without sacrifice, there is no freedom.” Regarding running, freedom from future pain and from a body that is out of shape can only come at the sacrifice of time and enduring short-term pain.
The greater reality of freedom through sacrifice is how much God chose to endure so that we could receive freedom from the eternal judgement we deserve. I thought about the constant rejection by His chosen people (Israel) and all His creation (us) throughout history and then the pain and suffering Jesus endured on the cross to set us free from the power of sin (Romans 6:6-14.) Not only physical pain but being despised and rejected by the very people he was sacrificing himself for (Isaiah 53:3, Matthew 27:39-44.) God deemed that the sacrifice was worth the freedom to which I am humbled and grateful. This truth helped me push through my own pain and remember the importance of enduring today for the blessing of tomorrow.
As I neared the end of my run, I was tempted to slow down and walk before I got to my planned finish line. However, I thought of the words of Apostle Paul (1 Corinthians 9:23-25, 2 Timothy 4:7, Philippians 3:12-14) and the writer of Hebrews 12:1-3 regarding running the spiritual race with perseverance and finishing strong. I am sure those who are in the later years of their life may be tempted to slow down and coast to the finish line, but I hear Jesus saying to lean forward and push yourself even harder. I picked up my pace and sprinted to the finish with a hopeful determination that by the grace of God I will be able to do the same spiritually, keeping my eyes fixed on Jesus.
Blessings,
Kimbo
Yes, as your 67 yr old mom this hits home. I dreamed last night about being offered the perfect job back in my old career. I woke up realizing I dont want it. I am grateful for where I am currently at with the gift of more time to focus on Jesus and serving Him through nuturing relationships. And yes getting His temple, my body energized to carry out His missions. Starting out walking. Thanks for the inspiration!
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