Finish Well

I remember when I used to run cross-country in high school. Yes, its only been seven years but it seems like forever ago, and I haven't really run since. My coach had many philosophies and one I will always remember is, Run through the line!

Some racers would let up and start coasting 10-15 yards before the finish line. That was one thing my coach hated. Anytime we did track workouts she was always yelling as us to not pull up before the finish line. But see, it paid off for almost all of us at some time. We would catch people or prevent ourselves from being passed, simply because that last 50-100 yards was all out and we wouldn't let up until we had crossed the line (This did cause some problems as we did run into people who had stopped past the line.)

I'm racing towards a finish line in life right now. Eight weeks separate me from an official end of grad school. Its hard to believe that I am in the homestretch.

I want to enjoy everything. I want to savor the moments that I have left with a group of people who for the love of Jesus have radically altered my life.

There is a temptation to coast, to pull out of certain responsibilties. And while I know the necessity of dicipling and passing on responsiblities to those who will continue here, the greatest influence I can have is by finishing well.

And the things you have heard me say in the presence of many witnesses entrust to reliable men who will also be qualified to teach others.

Besides, I have another finish line to strive for.

However, I consider my life worth nothing to me, if only I may finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given me—the task of testifying to the gospel of God's grace.