Life is difficult at times. But as we look back at the challenges, amazingly we got through each one. At the age of five I remember tying shoes was hard. But once I got the hang of it, no problem. And I learned tying shoes led to running, which was faster than walking or being idle.

Fast forward to 1990. With shoes tied, I gathered with thousands of others in Honolulu to run my first marathon. Even with all my training, I wasn’t prepared for the “wall,” runners talk about. It hit about mile 20, and from then on, I learned to appreciate the importance of pressing on, one step at a time. It seemed like each mile was longer than the last as exhaustion was setting in. Inching along Diamond Head before the final descent to the finish line I witnessed something that will stick with me forever. Ahead were two men running together, and they were joyful as they chatted back and forth. And what were they holding between them? Upon a closer look I understood. Each had a hand on a large rubber ring that kept them together, like a lifeline. One was blind, and his sighted friend was guiding him through the course. Were they tired? Probably. Yet, like me, they pressed on, because the prize ahead is always worth the pain behind.

Life with Jesus is a little like those two runners. As we hang on to Him He is there to guide us, strengthen us, and encourage us so that we may find joy in the journey even when life is difficult and we can’t see how much further until the prize. Remember, Jesus Christ will get us home, every step of the way. (See Philippians 3 and 4)

- Pastor Jim