“Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn. Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position. Do not be conceited.”
Romans 12:15-16
During our oldest son’s senior year, an injury slowed him down as the cross-country running season progressed. On the day that the coach announced who the state meet qualifiers were, I got a brief text from our son telling me he’d been bumped down to alternate. His freshman brother was to take his varsity spot.
Knowing their competitive personalities, I wasn’t sure what mood to expect when they arrived home. But they walked in together, chatting and laughing. Our oldest son was disappointed, but he also was happy for his brother. And our freshman son expressed genuine sorrow that his hardworking brother wouldn’t get to run that significant race.
Running sports provide myriad opportunities to develop godly character. But we all see that in any of our life pursuits and circumstances, whether they include running or not, we reflect Jesus’ love to others. In His wisdom, our Lord knows that bearing one another’s burdens lightens our load and multiplies our joy—even and especially when our Christian “race” doesn’t go as we expect.
Knowing their competitive personalities, I wasn’t sure what mood to expect when they arrived home. But they walked in together, chatting and laughing. Our oldest son was disappointed, but he also was happy for his brother. And our freshman son expressed genuine sorrow that his hardworking brother wouldn’t get to run that significant race.
Running sports provide myriad opportunities to develop godly character. But we all see that in any of our life pursuits and circumstances, whether they include running or not, we reflect Jesus’ love to others. In His wisdom, our Lord knows that bearing one another’s burdens lightens our load and multiplies our joy—even and especially when our Christian “race” doesn’t go as we expect.
Scripture Focus
Romans 12:1-16
Insight
This piece was contributed by Rebecca, current cross-country mom and former cross-country team runner.
Bible In A Year
- 2 Chronicles 3-4
- Psalm 9
- Matthew 13
