Eyes on the Prize

Not sure if I told you all how grateful I am that you stuck with me during my hiatus. There were many messages asking questions about when the posts were returning, which I sincerely appreciate.   There won’t be any other interruptions in the future…I have enough now that I can put a few in syndication if need be. The audios will be back soon as well.  I hope this message encourages you as others have before.

“I been through too much not to worship…”

~ Vashawn Mitchell

When I was younger, we were encouraged to watch documentaries and television programs that told the history or facts on just about everything. One series in particular was one that delved into the history of the Civil Rights movement, moving through decades in several one-hour increments.  The theme was clear, despite all that occurred in the details of violence and other difficulties, there was an unwillingness to lose focus of the optimal goal: the ability to live life with the freedoms that are allotted to every person. 

The “prize” was something not considered tangible, well, not of sorts. There is no actual way to embrace freedom except through metaphor.  It is the ability to walk down the street without harassment from people who oppose your style of dress.   It is the option of shopping in the store of our choosing without worrying social or political affiliations and beliefs.  Even the right to an equal education without your eligibility questioned are all manifestations of the “prize”. 

Faith is the same. We are rewarded through blessings as a result of what we endure in life.  Losing our job and walking through a period of unemployment may lead to a career in the field that we love.   Having to move from place to place could allow us to take more care in building our home once we get our space.  And going through numerous tests, programs and study sessions can show you to be more prepared for the new position.  “Beloved, I do not consider that I have made it my own; but this one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead, I press on towards the goal for the prize of the heavenly call of God in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 3:13-14 NRSV). There is more to the story than the current situation.

Consider focusing on the large picture, placing those goals in a place where they are always readily available to see – in your car, at your desk, in your calendar - so that your eyes are always on the prize.