The Building of Jesus’ Church is not unlike a relay race! For nearly 2000 years, from the beginning until now, there have been a multitude of believers playing their part in the bigger picture. A relay race is made up of individual runners, each running their particular part of the race. But, though individual for a segment of the overall race they are actually a team! The Body of Christ is like that! Throughout the 2000 years, we are running our individual races that have been given to us, but one day we will meet and see that we were part of something so much bigger. The Church, The Bride of Christ!
In Hebrews 12, we see a Word of encouragement. Following on from chapter 11 where people from the Old Testament are mentioned for their ‘faith’, Paul writes: “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, 2 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. “
Following on from these witnesses spoken about, there are now an additional multitude from nearly 2000 years of history joining the ‘team.’ We are in the last leg of the ‘relay race.’ The rest of the ‘team’ have run their part of the race, and they are all waiting for the ‘victory crown’ promised by Christ. Therefore, let us know that we are on the home straight with the finishing line ahead. So, if you are feeling weak and tired, allow the Holy Spirit to strengthen you for the final sprint. Hebrews 12 verse 12 says:- “Therefore lift your drooping hands and strengthen your weak knees, 13 and make straight paths for your feet, so that what is lame may not be put out of joint but rather be healed.”
Know that you are part of the family of Christ. The majority are ready and waiting for the completion of this ‘2000 year’ relay race. Upon completion, there will be a ceremony unlike any other ever. The Marriage Supper of the Lamb – Christ’s Wedding Celebration! Not one to be missed!
