In his insightful devotional book, “And the Angels Were Silent,” Max Lucado writes of an incident in the filming of the 1960’s film, Ben Hur.
As you may recall, there is an incredibly well-photographed and exciting chariot race in this magnificent film. The story is told that Charlton Heston had trouble learning how to drive the chariot. So, after a great deal of work and practice, Heston mastered the art of driving the chariot but felt impelled to go to the director, Cecil B. DeMille, and say, “I think I can drive the chariot, but I’m not sure I can win the race.” DeMille is said to have responded with, “You just stay in the race… I’ll make sure you win.” That is exactly what Jesus does for us. He rewards our faithfulness. It is always worth giving the Lord all of our life and everything about it. Many times, the enemy will whisper something in our ear that goes something like this, “You aren’t good enough. Look at all the things you have done. God is not going to forgive you for that, but you can work for it and maybe He will be lenient.” It may not be those exact words, but it has to do with the fact that you are not good enough for God. That’s where Jesus comes in. Without Him, we are not good enough. But through the blood of Jesus, we are acceptable, forgiven, and have all we need to live a victorious life. “Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God.” Hebrews 12:1-2 Jesus made it possible for us to run this race we are on. Not only that but He has a host of witnesses, that have run the race, rooting us on. We are able through the power of the Holy Spirit. Along the way, we begin to focus on the race and then we begin to waver and stumble. It would be like someone trying to cut a straight line with their lawnmower and staring at the wheels instead of looking at the goal. The intended straight line would end up looking like a diagonal line at best. Stay focused on Jesus and let him take care of the rest. Keep your heart and mind meditating on the things that He wants you to focus on. When we do that then there will be no room for thoughts to discourage or distract you. As it says in Matthew 6:33, “Seek first the kingdom of God.” Speaking of surrounding yourself with good things, take the time to go down to The Gathering in St. Marys. The address is 272 Jack Oak Point, St. Marys, Ohio. It is exactly one hour from our church. You will be glad you did. Services are at 10:30am or 7:00pm. This Sunday is Father’s Day. It’s going to be a great service. Plan to come and honor your father and bring your fathers with you. Or better yet, bring your kids with you. I am looking forward to worshipping together with my church family. Joy in Jesus! Pastor Mike
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
Details
Rev. Mike McClurgSenior Pastor, Findlay First Church of the Nazarene Archives
March 2020
Categories |