Therefore we also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Hebrews 12: 1-3, NKJV.
Dear God, how we long to master the lesson of keeping our eyes on You, so please teach us how, as we sit in Your presence for the next few minutes. In the name of your Son Jesus the Christ we pray. Amen.
Perhaps one of the most difficult lessons to learn and master when walking, is maintaining one’s focus. At least it is for me. I believe that the main underlying reason for this is pride. For me, who do my walking down the main boulevard of my neighborhood, I am seen by both pedestrians and motorists. Any mishaps on my part, are laid bare before their eyes. Another great temptation is unconsciously or consciously, to compete with other walkers. Therefore, I am constantly praying: Lord, please keep me focused.
The dynamics of maintaining one’s focus and “staying in the moment” are closely related. They both require allowing the Holy Spirit to take full control of one’s mind. It is the sweet influence of the Holy Spirit that reminds me that I am not competing with anyone. I am walking for my health. What if I have a mishap (slip perhaps)? I am not out there to necessarily impress anyone. If I can inspire others to walk, so be it! Otherwise, it is all for God’s glory, if I can lead a healthy life! Therefore, those positive thoughts empower and energize me and allow me to keep my eyes on the One who “started me on my way,” and who will bring me to my goal! Hallelujah!
The cloud of witnesses in the preceding chapter (Hebrews 11) all ran or walked their Marathon “by faith.” They all went over some very rough terrain, but faith kept them going. There is one particular upward slope, the first one I encounter on the boulevard, that requires all the faith I can muster. When I started walking I would take off like a bullet (I am a natural fast walker; it just feels comfortable). Then, when I would turn the corner onto the boulevard, I would keep walking at the same pace, until one day it hit me that moving upward at that rate was not going to be a pleasant task, without some adjustments to my routine.
It is absolutely amazing how the Holy Spirit will allow us to figure out certain things for ourselves, with His help! I soon realized that God was encouraging me to continue going up that first slope rather vigorously. Therefore, it was a much better idea for me to begin my walk at a slower pace and save as much energy as possible, in order to pick up the necessary speed to conquer the slope! I have been doing that ever since! Easy? No. But do-able.
As I walk day by day, and spend more time talking to my very Best Friend Jesus, my life is taking on a greater purpose. I am learning to be humble. I am becoming more disciplined. I am becoming aware of my limitations, and learning to have greater respect for my boundaries. And every day I am discovering areas of my life that need improving. By His grace, I so want to “lay aside every weight and the sin which so easily ensnares.” I know I can only accomplish this by “maintaining my focus” on Him who will take me to the finish line. I am willing by His grace to do this, so that one day, perhaps very, very, soon, I shall see Him whom my soul adores! This is the “joy that is set before [me]” !