WORLD CLASS FINISH

Now that we are nearing the end of another regular season of football, what does it really mean to finish strong?  As we review the season behind us, we all have certainly experienced peaks and valleys.  Let’s look at what finishing strong really means.

In his book Running and Being, George Sheehan writes, “I am at my best nearing the finish of a race. Until then I am just another mediocre distance runner. Just one of the many run-of-the-mill competitors well back in the pack. But with the finish line in sight, all that changes. Now I am the equal of anyone. Gray-haired, balding and wrinkled, but world class. Gasping, wheezing and groaning, but unbeatable.”

As officials, we can often find ourselves in a “pack” just getting through the season.  As we draw to the end, and the finish line is in site, let’s be motivated to be world class.  To finish world class, focus on what Jesus can do for us…..

1. Christ focus=strength to endure present hardships.
“But he said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.’ Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me. That is why, for Christ's sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong” (2 Corinthians 12:9-10).

2. Christ focus=remembering his mercy and help in times past.

 “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.” (2 Timothy 4:7).

3. Christ focus=great hope for the future

“Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day—and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing.” (2 Timothy 4:8).

No matter our current circumstances or our past success/failures, to finish world class, we must keep our Christ focused attention to the finish line.