Looking Up Scripture Reading – Hebrews 12:1b- 2a (NLT)

"And let us run with endurance the race God has set before us. We do this by keeping our eyes on Jesus, the champion who initiates and perfects our faith." 

It was a good year for our professional hockey team here in Edmonton as for the first time in over 10 years we were in the finals. It stirred up a real sense of excitement in our city as many of us donned the orange crush cheering on our team. It is causing many of us to look ahead with great expectation at the soon to start 2017 – 18 hockey season.

The truth of the matter for each one of us who belong to Christ Jesus is that we are all in a race.  And God is the One who has set the course before us. Our Personal Trainer and Coach is none other than the Holy Spirit, Who knows exactly what we need to do in order to successfully accomplish the eternal goals that God has planned and purposed for each one of our lives. And finally we are told to be those who are, 'Looking Up' to Jesus Christ our risen Lord and Savior.

If we were to be honest about this race that we have been entered into by the grace of our God we would have to confess that already we have come to understand that we are in a marathon, and not a 100 Yd. dash. Therefore, we must endure many different kinds of trials, tests and tribulations. But as we fix our gaze on Jesus and remember that it was in fact His grace that initiated our faith and He is the Author of our eternal salvation. It also is by His grace and for His greater glory that we are able to be perfected in the sight of the Father.

So may we bear the name of Christian, Christ-follower with great honor and joy. Truly there is nothing more exciting to live for and share than the truth of the Good News of Jesus. God our Father has entered us into the race, and the eternal prize, which will never spoil, tarnish or fade away, awaits each one of us the day that we stand before Jesus. 

Prayer Almighty God, I lift up my eyes to Jesus Christ the One Who has called me by grace into this eternal race. Holy Spirit, help me to follow Your lead and to run the race well right to the finish line. I ask this in the name of Jesus Christ my Lord. 

Memory Verse:  Colossians 3:15 NLT "And let the peace that comes from Christ rule in your hearts. For as members of one body you are called to live in peace. And always be thankful.”