.

TODAY’S WORD…

.

I have fought the good fight to the end;

I have run the race to the finish;

I have kept the faith.

.

– 2 Timothy 4:7

.

.

.

REFLECTION…

.

Living a Christian life is a lot about determination and endurance.

St Paul describes his like as if he was some athlete participating in a form of magnificent spiritual Games

– ‘games’ that take place in the presence of God, who acts as the judge.

.

Running the race to the finish indicates the continuous effort to achieve perfection;

and fighting the good fight to the end describes the effort and strength required to resist sin.

.

As resolute Christians, we know that it is more than worth while taking part,

and that with God’s grace,

as well as by focusing on Him and letting Him coach and encourage us,

we will complete our challenging task and keep our faith to the glorious end.

.

.

.

QUOTE…

.

"…the crown which it bestows

never withers.

It is not made of laurel leaves,

it is not a man who places it on our head,

it has not been won in the presence of a crowd made up of men,

but in a stadium full of angels.

.

In earthly competitions a man fights and strives for days

and the only reward he receives is a crown which withers in a matter of hours [. . .].

That does not happen here:

the crown he is given is a glory and honour whose brilliance lasts forever."

.

– St. John Chrysostom

.

.

.

PRAYER…

.

Lord, You are my strength; my determination!

.