"Let us lay aside every encumbrance of sin which clings to us and persevere in running the race which lies ahead; let us keep our eyes fixed on Jesus, who inspires and perfects our faith."(Hebrews 12:1)

With all that is going on around us (the negativity of the media, the natural and human catastrophes, the uncertainties of the times, the rampant onslaught of immorality), we can become distracted from our purpose and destiny. Paul reminds us once again that we are in a race that is not a sprint but a marathon. Part of the discipline of this race is to not to be distracted and fall into the trap of the lure of sin. Its momentary pleasure dulls our commitment to reach our prize. What we need to do is keep our eyes fixed on Jesus, the beginning and the end of our life. Each day will bring us many challenges, but the one challenge that we must embrace is to keep running with conviction towards the goal, life everlasting in the presence of Our Lord and God. We may stumble and fall. The race is not over. The love of God calls us on to the finish line. It is not important in this race whether we are first or last, only that we finish victoriously.