Mike’s Musings … The End of the Line
You’ll never find my name in any record books of sports – any sport! Oh yes, basketball, football, some wrestling, and even an “unofficial” auto race or two are in my history, but being a participant would more accurately describe my experiences. That doesn’t keep me from enjoying these sports as a spectator. The word “fan” comes from the description of one who is enthusiastic about the activity: a “fan-atic” of the game. I admit I am a “fan.”
I have my favorites, like all “fans” of such sports. When they win, my enthusiasm for the team increases, and at times, certain players receive my heightened applause. But I’m constantly reminded that these sports are TEAM sports, regardless of one or more being predominant in their game. Presently, I’m watching some of the Big Ten Men’s Basketball Tournament. I watched last night as my “home team” met with defeat. For them, even their hopes of a bid in the NCAA tournament have reached “the end of the line.” But it doesn’t stop me from watching the other teams in their quest to take home the championship trophy! Until the last game of the season, these still have some “line” left!
The apostle Paul knew a bit about sports, at least running sports. He talks about “running with patience the race set before us” with our eye on the goal (Hebrews 12:1-2). He had some knowledge of wrestling (Ephesians 6:12) and knew about reaching the “end of the line” in these challenges (2 Timothy 4:7-8). But he never knew “giving up.” He never looked back, but always forward toward the goal of success in Christ Jesus (Philippians 3:13-14).
While the Scriptures give us several “sports analogies,” we must understand our quest for eternal heaven is not a “game.” It is instead a life of diligence, in which we cannot be spectators, but fervent participants, striving for the crown of life granted to those who remain faithful unto death (Revelation 2:10; 14:13). I muse on why any soul would claim they’ve “reached the end of the line” with their spiritual journey, when all they really did was surrender to the challenger! We live only one day at a time, and each day must bring us a little closer to the goal. If you’re reading this, you are NOT at the end of the line yet! Keep looking ahead!
