NO MATTER WHAT...FINISH STRONG!

NO MATTER WHAT…FINISH STRONG!

The sage Solomon’s wisdom alludes to the manner in which we ought to complete whatever has been purposefully started.  In his words, “The END of a thing is better than its beginning; the patient in spirit is better than the proud in spirit.” (Ecclesiastes 7:8, NKJV)  That is to say, the quality of one’s finish is a clear reflection of one’s faith, character and spirit.

Consider this true story.  The Summer Olympics of 1992 were held in Barcelona, Spain.  It’s a beautiful stadium which I had the opportunity to visit 15 years ago.  In the quarter finals of the 400 meter sprint, British athlete Derek Redmond was one of the favorites for the gold medal.  A lifetime of training had brought him to this moment.  The official’s gun sounded and the athletes burst powerfully from their starter blocks.

Halfway through the race, Derek Redmond was leading.  Then disaster struck.  He pulled his hamstring and collapsed on the track.  It was a crushing blow, with physical and emotional agony clearly visible on his tear streaked face.

Medical attendants ran over to assist, but Derek waved them away.  He had entered this race and he was determined to finish, no matter what.  Derek got to his feet and started hobbling down the track.  The crowd was mesmerized and the officials didn’t know what to do.

Just then, an older man ran onto the track.  He brushed off the officials who tried to stop him and ran up beside Derek, placing his arms around him.

That man was Derek Redmond’s Dad, Jim.

“You don’t have to do this son,” the father advised compassionately.

“Yes I do!” Derek insisted.

“Then we’ll finish this race together,” came the response from Derek’s Dad.

Arm in arm, with agony etched on Derek’s face and tears streaming down his father’s face, Derek and Jim continued down the track.  Derek buried his face in his father’s shoulder.  His father’s strong shoulder supported his son, both physically and emotionally.  Jim waved away any official who tried to stop them.

Finally, accompanied by a roaring crowd that was standing in unison and applauding, Derek Redmond crossed the line.  It became the defining moment of the Barcelona Olympics.

Undoubtedly, many have faced trying and challenging circumstances this year, but we must hold on to our resolve to stay positive and finish strong.  After all, it’s the hopeful thing to do – and it opens a wide door for future blessings.  “Be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor is not in vain in the Lord.” (I Corinthians 15:58, NKJV)

Sisters and brothers, be continually blessed, and please (above all else) MAKE SURE YOU ARE READY TO MEET OUR SOON COMING KING. Maranatha!