I learned some things from watching my grandson’s track meets. One is that you shouldn’t look back. It distracts you and slows you down. As you run the race of faith, don’t keep looking back with guilt and regrets. Let go of the faults and failures that plague you because they have already been forgiven and forgotten by our gracious God.

Secondly, keep your eye on the finish line. In one race, a runner was second until he slowed down at the end, thinking he had crossed the finish line. He ended up fourth without a prize. On our journey of faith, we need to keep our heart and mind focused on God’s finish line, so we don’t quit the race early or get distracted by the deceptive prizes which this world offers. And Jesus will be there, running alongside with strength, and at the finish line with God’s priceless prize of eternal life.