It is Boston Marathon Day. World Class, elite runners are gathering from all over the planet. However, because the temperature will be near 90 degrees and for the first time in 116 years officials are advising many not to run and to defer their applications fees until next year. Over 1,000 people have been trained in the art of CPR and will be stationed along the route from Hopkinton to the finish line in the city. In 2007 in Chicago when the temperature hit the mid-eighties the race was stopped at 3.5 hours. It was just too dangerous. However, the winners will cross the finish line in just over 2 hours.
Racing is as old as people. Who is the fastest is something we want to know. It drives us. In New Testament times reference is made to crowns that fade. For a short time it sits on top of the winner’s head but is very short lived. In Boston in 2011 there was $806,000 prize money to be awarded so the motivation is a bit more than just olive leaves.
Lest we feel left out because our physical prowess does not rank us in the money winners there is another crown waiting for us. Paul wrote, “Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training. They do it to get a crown that will not last; but we do it to get a crown that will last forever.” I Corinthians 9:25 and Peter wrote, “And when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the crown of glory that will never fade away.” I Peter 5:4. In Christ we are more than conquerors. What great verses!
Written by Roger Bothwell on April 16, 2012
Spring of Life Ministry, PO Box 124, St. Helena, CA 94574
Rogerbothwell.org