Sunday, August 23, 2026
Finish the race!
“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day—and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for His appearing” ( 2 Timothy 4:7–8).
Parents are always excited when their children participate in sporting events. Every parent wants to see their child not only compete but also finish well. There is something deeply satisfying about seeing a race completed, regardless of the challenges encountered along the way.
During the 1992 Olympic Games in Barcelona, British 400-metre runner Derek Redmond was competing when he suddenly tore his hamstring and collapsed on the track. Although he could no longer run, Derek was determined to finish the race. His father, Jim Redmond, came from the stands, made his way past security, and helped his injured son hobble toward the finish line. Together, father and son completed the race.
This powerful picture reminds us of the Christian journey. We too are running a race, and our goal is to finish well. The Apostle Paul says: “Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us”( Hebrews 12:1).
Paul understood that the Christian race is not always easy. Along the way, we may encounter obstacles, distractions, disappointments, temptations and circumstances that test our faith. There may be moments when we feel tired, discouraged or even unable to continue.
But we must persevere, keeping our eyes on the prize. Our calling is not merely to start the race but to finish it. And the good news is that we do not run alone.
Just as Jim came down from the stands to help his injured son reach the finish line, our Lord Jesus Christ is always with us. When our strength fails and our faith grows weak, He is ready to lift us up, strengthen us and carry us forward. He will never abandon those who trust in Him.
Let us therefore keep running. Let us keep believing. Let us keep our eyes fixed on Jesus and refuse to give up. One day, by His grace, we shall be able to say with Paul, “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.”
Prayer: Heavenly Father, Almighty God, I pray today that whenever my faith is weak and my strength fails, You will lift me up and strengthen me. Help me to overcome every obstacle, resist every temptation and persevere through every trial. Keep my eyes fixed on Jesus and help me to finish the race strong in faith and faithful to the end. I pray this in the name of Jesus Christ.
