“This train never stops”

In a news story about the work of governing, White House spokesman, Jay Carney, spoke of the victory gained by the death of Osama bin Laden and the resulting bump in the President’s poll numbers. Time to celebrate is limited. He pointed out that issues remain that occupy the President’s attention. Unemployment figures are still sky high, the economy is stalled, and government spending remains a huge challenge. “This train never stops,” he said.

So true! We all deal with life as it keeps rolling. We think that life might become less complicated next month or next year, but it never does. Each season brings new challenges. The demand for growth is ongoing. Let’s be honest, it can get exhausting. There are people who are overwhelmed by the race; who drop out, hide out, or wipe out! Some just lay down and go with the current, swept away to irrelevance. Others bury themselves in meaningless diversions like watching TV endlessly or hanging out at the bar. Still others make terribly self-destructive sinful choices.

The Scripture says that there is a way that leads to life. It’s called endurance! "Do not throw away this confident trust in the Lord. Remember the great reward it brings you! Patient endurance is what you need now, so that you will continue to do God’s will. Then you will receive all that he has promised. “For in just a little while, the Coming One will come and not delay. And my righteous ones will live by faith. But I will take no pleasure in anyone who turns away.” But we are not like those who turn away from God to their own destruction. We are the faithful ones, whose souls will be saved." (Hebrews 10:35-39, NLT)

How do we stay in the race, keep on meeting the challenges?

First, we choose faith, our hope set fully on Christ’s promises! The rewards in this world are not always attained. In Ecclesiastes we are told that "The race is not always to the swift, nor the battle to the strong, nor satisfaction to the wise, nor riches to the smart, nor grace to the learned." (Ecclesiastes 9:11, The Message) In short, life is not fair! We risk becoming disillusioned, even embittered, if we measure success by our wealth or status.

Second, we do God’s will, not ours! James’ realism is refreshing. "Now listen, you who say, “Today or tomorrow we will go to this or that city, spend a year there, carry on business and make money.” Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes. Instead, you ought to say, “If it is the Lord’s will, we will live and do this or that.” (James 4:13-15, NIV) Are you listening for the direction of the Spirit as you meet today’s challenges and plan for tomorrow? Do His will today, and you can rest confident that He will lead you through the unknown that lies ahead.

Third, we know that there is an End, when the King returns! In that Glorious Day, He will set things right, bring justice (both a comforting and fearful thought), and finally bring us to our Home.

Yes, disciple, this train never stops this side of Heaven. So, weep, if you’re sad. Rejoice, when you win. Love always. And, remember, you need not walk alone.

Here’s a word from the Word. "For even young people tire and drop out, young folk in their prime stumble and fall. But those who wait upon God get fresh strength. They spread their wings and soar like eagles, They run and don’t get tired, they walk and don’t lag behind." (Isaiah 40:30-32, The Message)

Wait on Him and let the Spirit renew your strength for the race, then go get’em!