Pacesetters

“Let us run with endurance the race (course) that God has set before us. We do this by keeping our eyes on Jesus, the champion who initiates and perfects our faith.” (Hebrews 12:1-2 NLT)

Marathons have front-runners who are favored to win and pacesetters who are meant to motivate other runners.  In a long-distance running race, pacesetters are the runners that others count on to maintain steady speeds. For example, even if you are not one of the elite athletes at the front of the pack, you can usually find a pacesetter that is running close to your natural speed and just follow them. This encourages you to run at a consistent pace and keep up even when your energy is flagging.

“So take a new grip with your tired hands and strengthen your weak knees. Mark out a straight path for your feet so that those who are weak and lame will not fall but become strong.” (Hebrews 12:12-13 NLT)

Jesus is the front-runner. We are all following Him. However, each of us also plays the role of a pacesetter for those running behind.  

Lord, you are running ahead of us. Help us to keep our eyes on you and imitate your technique. Keep us motivated. In turn, help us to be good role models of endurance for those who are running behind us but may not be able to see you because they are too distant from you.