Every two years life stops for me, and I watch anything having to do with the Olympics. I watch events (curling) that I know nothing about, and I watch events (half pipe) that just amaze me. I especially love to hear the stories of what it takes to get to that level of competing; many of the athletes have overcome incredible obstacles to come to the Olympics and realize a dream.
One thing you won't hear when listening to stories from the athletes, is a negative outlook. Each person there has visualized this moment over and over in their heads. They have trained in all kinds of weather, and pushed through injuries, and overcome hardships to be where they are at this moment. They had to set their eyes on a goal, and they have sacrificed everything to be representing their country in a sport. They do this all for the glory of having a medal put around their neck.
Do you know that those who run in a race all run, but one receives the prize? Run in such a way that you may obtain it. 1 Corinthians 9:24
Paul used running a race as a metaphor for the Christian life. The road is usually not easy, but the reward is great. He encourages us to press on and to know that a life lived passionately and with purpose for Christ is like running a marathon and getting the ultimate prize at the end, eternity with Christ.
I have known some obstacles in my life, but none as big as the moment when I was told I had stage IV breast cancer in 2007. The fear of what was destroying my body was one of the biggest obstacles I had to face. Through scripture, prayer, and worship through song, I found out that God was cheering for me to be a winner for Him. He had trained me all of my life for this moment, and I started to set my eyes on the ultimate goal. I have always wanted to hear the words, "Well done my good and faithful servant", and I started living my life (more than ever) for that moment. I claimed scripture and God's promises, and the journey has been sweeter than I could have ever imagined. A month ago I was told the the lesions on my liver are benign. A miracle!!! I had a taste of being in front of God and hearing those words! I felt Him saying, I am giving you this victory now, here on earth, to remind you of my great love for you. Keep running!!
"I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. "
2 Timothy 4:7
Sometimes the obstacles of life look too big, but we have a God that does not know the word impossible. I continue to look toward another goal, which is complete healing, and I will train and do whatever He calls me to do as I look towards more miracles. I feel as if I have won a silver medal, and my best race is yet to come!
Running the race with Him pacing you is a guarantee that you will win the gold!
God Bless,
Sandy
