Finish the Race

Last night, I was reminded of a truth I sometimes forget. I was in attendance at my niece Emily's volleyball game. During the second set, Em jumped up at the net, a girl from the opposing team slipped under the net and Em landed on the other girl's foot causing her to roll her ankle. Em yelled, tears started falling and she limped off the court. An ibuprofen, a significant taping, a tighter ankle brace and a couple of minutes later, she was back in the game.

 Here are some things you need to know. Emily doesn't cry. She doesn't feel sorry for herself. She bucks up, gets up and gets back to it. For her to yell and then tears to fall means it HURT! For her to get out for only a short time, get it taken care of and get back in the game, doesn't surprise anyone who knows her. She's a tough cookie, a great team member and a young woman of strong character.

Am I?

Am I always willing to get back in the game even if it hurts? Am I willing to put the good of the team ahead of my own pain? Am I willing to finish the race?

I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. 
II Timothy 4:7

I know I want to and I know sometimes I do. Only because of the strength of the Lord inside me. Only because He ran the race first and is standing at the finish line encouraging me forward, every day. 

Last night, Em scored the final 3 points to win the game with her team! It was hard fought for them all and they played together like champions. I'm just a little proud of this niece of mine and the lesson I was reminded of while watching her triumph last night. 

So proud of you, Emily! Thank you, Lord, for reminding me to keep running. 

peace.