1 Corinthians 9:24-27
Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize. Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training. They do it to get a crown that will not last, but we do it to get a crown that will last forever. Therefore I do not run like someone running aimlessly; I do not fight like a boxer beating the air. No, I strike a blow to my body and make it my slave so that after I have preached to others, I myself will not be disqualified for the prize. 1 Corinthians 9:24-27 (NIV)
This passage seems simple. Do you want to run a race? Train. Do you want to win a race? Train harder, train more. Get yourself in shape. Are you guaranteed to win? What prize will you receive if you win?
Racing and boxing do not apply to everyone. So what is Paul talking about here? Are you going to start training for a race or a boxing match? Not happening here.
Paul is talking about a “crown that will last forever.” So how do we earn that crown? Go to church on Sundays, give to the poor, ask for forgiveness for our sins. Are we done? Should we be done?
Our Synod Bishop, Scott Johnson, writes a monthly newsletter. In November’s newsletter, he quotes from the ELCA’s first social statement, Church in Society: A Lutheran Perspective.
“In witnessing to Jesus Christ, the Church announces that the God who justifies expects all people to do justice. God’s good and just demands address people in the obligations of their relationships and the challenges of the world… God works through the family, education, the economy, the state, and other structures necessary for life in the present age… This church respects the God-given integrity and tasks of governing authorities and other worldly structures, while holding them accountable to God.”
We are justified by grace. So we run the race. What is our prize when we win? Eternal life.
Questions for Reflection:
- Are you competing against others in the race? Are you helping them to the finish line? How can you do that?
Prayer:
Thank you, God, for all you have done for us today and every day. Help us to humble ourselves and lead us to our final destination. Amen.
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