THE APOSTLE PAUL AS EXAMPLE OF GRACEFUL LIVING

Life is often likened to a long-distance race. The high school and college activity of “track and field” dates to the ancient Greeks. In Montana, the high school athletic association added cross country, a totally different type of athletic event, that caught on quickly and is extremely popular. Saint Paul told a great deal about human nature, comparing life to a race. Maybe his main point was “pace yourself accordingly.” It would be a mistake to view our faith as a short race or sprint. Life challenges face us all, and I’d say right now

anxiety in America is running high. As a matter of fact, I’m certain things have gotten more and more intense for quite some time. However, Paul’s message is soothing.

Paul was born a Jew and by his own admission became a “religious zealot.” Later he recognized his legalism. His faith changed on a dusty road to Emmaus, when he recognized all his “religious” credentials were nothing in light of The Christ. Talk about a course correction. Paul didn’t lose his passion; he redirected his life towards spreading the Gospel of grace.

As Paul faced persecution and imprisonment notice his tone near the end of his life: “And now, compelled by the Spirit, I am going to Jerusalem, not knowing what will happen to me there. I only know that in every city the Holy Spirit warns me that prison and hardships are facing me. However, I consider my life worth nothing to me; my only aim is to finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given me—the task of testifying to the good news of God’s grace,”

(Acts 20:22-24).

Contemplating life decisions is something people commonly do as they approach the last “laps” when facing possible death. I have often sat with individuals and families as they navigate this difficult reality. Wisdom teaches us to asses our life long before we approach those final days, certainly,

keeping into consideration finish strong. Not one of us is promised tomorrow. It is essential we journey with grace in mind. Wouldn’t you think a life marked by grace is far better choice than being crude or coarse?

Paul lived unselfishly and taught Christ crucified. His motto was clear, “For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain,” (Philippians 1:21). In this rat race we call life, have you taken time to slow down to assess the measure of grace which operates through your life? How you speak to others, your attitude toward the misfortunate, and the priorities you establish. Be filled with grace. We have the ability through Christ to lead with grace, even if others do not.

Just as a runner wishes to start the race well, the same is true for finishing strong. Every moment of life in between is where we can learn and grow in action. No matter the hardships or the great joys: I want to encourage you to go with grace. Author Lysa TerKeurst said, “When to give grace? I’d rather stand before God, knowing I loved others too much rather than regretting that I judged too harshly.” Now that’s a worthy standard to strive for, as we all run our race.