For I am already being poured out as a drink offering, and the time of my departure has come. I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Henceforth there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, will award to me on that Day, and not only to me but also to all who have loved his appearing. - 2 Timothy 4:6-8

The Apostle Paul penned these words to Timothy, his "son" in gospel service (Philippians 2:22), fully anticipating that he would soon be martyred for preaching the word of Christ. He relates his career as an apostle to the running of a marathon. Having succeeded, he now breathlessly anticipates the medal podium and the affirmation of his accomplishment. Paul does not go for the gold because of the cash value of precious metal or for the lucrative endorsements he can garner as an immortal sports star, he runs to honor the One who stands at the finish, ready to welcome him to the victory:

When the perishable puts on the imperishable, and the mortal puts on immortality, then shall come to pass the saying that is written:

"Death is swallowed up in victory." "O death, where is your victory?
O death, where is your sting?"

The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law. But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.

Therefore, my beloved brothers, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that in the Lord your labor is not in vain. - 1 Corinthians 15:54-58

As he does Timothy, Paul encourages us to run our own race "steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord" knowing that in Christ we, too, can look forward to success. Running the race and being "in it to win it" call for certain sacrifices on our part. Like the Olympic athlete, we have to steward our time and talents well, not indulging in every worldly distraction but devoting ourselves to accomplishing our mission. We must feed upon that which promotes strength and health, and exercise to build endurance for the long run. Paul, again, says it this way:

Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one receives the prize? So run that you may obtain it. Every athlete exercises self-control in all things. They do it to receive a perishable wreath, but we an imperishable. So I do not run aimlessly; I do not box as one beating the air. But I discipline my body and keep it under control, lest after preaching to others I myself should be disqualified. - 1 Corinthians 9:24-27

The main thing is this: don't let the closing ceremony find you sitting on the bench having never run your appointed race. Do not fear that you will fail, rise up and give it your all! One of the enduring images of Olympic history is that of Derek Redmond. Tearing a hamstring in the 400 Meter semi-final, his father rushed to his side, together they crossed the finish line and won immortal fame in the annals of sport. Do you think you Father in heaven will do less for you?

Pressly