Called to Compete

I like to think the writer of Hebrews was a sports fan.The analogies he uses would certainly lead one to support this idea. Just as the writer referred to great numbers of witnesses, we athletes often compete in front of an audiences of great numbers.

This is also true in the Christian walk. Both believers and nonbelievers comprise our audience. There are those who encourage us: our pastors or our Sunday School teachers; and then there are those who "boo" us, ones who are opposed to any semblance of commitment to our Lord.

As we think about our example and our "coach,” Jesus Christ, we should be encouraged to continue being faithful even through the tough times of discipline and training. Just as surely as we strive for excellence in our chosen sport to gain that championship trophy, rewards await us that are worth the cost: the joy in realizing our victory over sin, the peace that comes from the knowledge of sins forgiven and, of course, eternal life!