It’s not about how fast, but whether we will last. The Christian life is often compared to a race, and, more accurately, a marathon. Unlike a sprint, where speed over a short distance is the priority, we are involved in a long-distance event where endurance is the prized quality. Speed at the start is no guarantee of endurance until the end.

I recently reflected on the fact that I’ve been running the race for about thirty-seven years. At the start, I certainly had no idea that the race would continue this long. As a newborn Christian, I anticipated the nearness of the Second Coming of Jesus and the prospect of a short sprint to the Kingdom of God. Time was short, I reasoned, and so speed was of the essence.

Now, from the perspective of thirty-seven years in the race, I more clearly see the importance of endurance and faithfulness. The tortoise, rather than the hare, is a kindred spirit.

Running well involves speed, but ultimately it involves endurance: “the one who endures to the end, he will be saved” (Mark 13:13).   

Thanks for being a “co-runner” with me in this worthy race. Your endurance inspires me to keep enduring as well.