I have fought the good fight, I have finished the course, I have kept the faith

2 Timothy 4:7

At the 1992 Olympic Games in Barcelona, British sprinter Derek Redmond was set to win a medal. He got off to a good start when suddenly he tore his hamstring and fell to the ground in pain. The race continued with Redmond crouched on the floor holding his hamstring. Redmond was down but not out. He got up and continued to limp and stumble his way to the finish line. Redmond’s father came onto the track and carried his son the extra length to the finish line. Redmond and his father finished the race together. Redmond was officially disqualified and the records state that he, “did not finish” the race. What happened at the 1992 Barcelona Olympics is one of the most memorable stories in sport and has been called, “the greatest moment in Olympic history”.

In Acts 20:24 Paul wrote, “But I do not consider my life of any account as dear to myself, in order that I may finish my course, and the ministry which I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify solemnly of the gospel of the grace of God.” The people of God have a purpose and ministry on earth from the Lord. We are called to finish the race we are called to. Just like Redmond in 1992, he had his eyes fixed on the finish line and he was driven to finish the race even though he was in pain.

During our lives, we will come face to face with real battles and trials in service of the Lord. We will be tempted to stop and quit. However, take heart dear Christian soul because our Heavenly Father will walk alongside us and help us finish the race just like Redmond’s father helped him. Listen to the words of Philippians 1:6 and be encouraged by the truth of God’s Word, “For I am confident of this very thing, that He who began a good work in you will perfect it until the day of Christ Jesus.” How does your faith in God affect your walk in life? Let us be encouraged today to continue on the path of holiness and righteousness. Let us be steadfast to run and finish the race we are called to bear.