In Acts 24, we see Paul before enemies who butter up, accuse and shame. We also have an enemy that brings lies and shame. That shame looks like defining ourselves by our mistakes. But God comes to us in our shame—He carried it for us and nailed it on the cross. He brings the conquering power of His truth and grace if we will humble ourselves and cast our cares onto Him.

Jesus said that those who enter the Kingdom of God need to come to Him like children. We learned that firsthand this week after an incredible Camp@Coast. We all must fix our eyes on Jesus in order to run our race with perseverence. We need to give Him everything we've got every single day, just like an athlete trains to win a perishable prize -- but ours is imperishable. Our prize is the presence of Jesus forever. Our prize is Jesus, Himself. So let us RUN!