This past weekend Wilmington sponsored a marathon and a half-marathon race. ENan and I wanted to participate, so we got up early Saturday morning and laced up our running shoes. To be honest, they were walking shoes and it wasn’t all that early. We didn’t run either one of the races; we just went to cheer on a friend as she crossed the finish line.
Marathon races originated in ancient Greece. In fact the odd 26.2 miles for a marathon equals the distance from the city of Marathon to the city of Athens. Apparently the notion of foot-racing reached Biblical territories by the time of the New Testament. The writer of the Book of Hebrews used the analogy of a race to challenge early followers of Jesus. He wrote, “Therefore since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us.” (Hebrews 12:1)
I have been told that marathon races in ancient times often ended with a lap around the track inside a stadium. The stands would be filled with supporters cheering on the athletes. Runners who were physically exhausted would find encouragement from the crowds and strength to finish strong. Hearing the historical background helps me to visualize what the Bible means by this “great cloud of witnesses.”
We had a chance to talk with our friend who was running the Wilmington half-marathon. She said she felt great running the first 8 miles. “Then,” she said, “miles 9-12 were a struggle. They seemed to get longer and longer. But, when I approached mile 13, I saw the crowds waiting for us. I heard the cheers and the ‘Atta girls!’ and I knew I could make it.” When she saw us on the other side of the finish line, she grabbed us and burst into tears. “Thank you for being here for me!” she told us.
We all need to have someone in our corner, cheering us on and offering us encouragement. Even though we always have the Holy Spirit walking alongside us, there are times we need someone “with skin on their face.” It may be a parent, a teacher, a coach or a friend.
That someone may be you!
-Dr. Jim Baldwin
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