At the 1992 Olympics, in the 400 meter semi-finals, renowned British sprinter Derek Redmond lined up as one of the top prospects and attractions of the race.
This prospective attraction’s hopes were quickly reduced to rubble after Redmond tore his hamstring early in the race.
Although clearly in a lot of pain, Redmond continued limping around the track with the clear intention of finishing the race that he had begun.
This limp could have ended early if it were not for Redmond’s father racing himself onto the track to help his son finish the race.
Redmond (And his father) received a standing ovation and was disqualified for accepting the assistance.
This is a touching display of humanity and shows the human’s capability to finish the races we begin.
Sometimes with the help of others.
Ecclesiastes is often viewed as a relentlessly pessimistic book within the Bible.
However, Ecclesiastes is chock full of beautiful proverbial wisdom that teaches about completing the work that we are called too.
Ecclesiastes 4:9-12 teaches,
“Two are better than one; because they have a good reward for their labour.
For if they fall, the one will lift up his fellow: but woe to him that is alone when he falleth; for he hath not another to help him up.
Again, if two lie together, then they have heat: but how can one be warm alone?
And if one prevail against him, two shall withstand him; and a threefold cord is not quickly broken.”
In our life, support systems are often naturally implemented (family) and or brought together (The Body of Christ).
There are many functions for these institutions; however, as Christians we all have a road to travel and course to finish in faith.
Sometimes, we fall.
Sometimes, we endure hurt.
In these times, lean into the encouragement of your support systems.
Of family, of the Body of Christ, of anything that will enrich and edify you in the truth.
Bonding together, will make a strong rope. Will help carry us through.
It is a crucial facility on standby so that we can say like the Apostle Paul,
“I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith” (2 Timothy 4:6-7).
I hope that this message has encouraged and is enriching!
God bless!