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November 3, 2008
Live for the End
by Cherie Campbell
But watch thou in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, make full proof of thy ministry. For I am now ready to be offered, and the time of my departure is at hand. I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith: Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing (2 Timothy 4:5-8).
I go to the track in the mornings to run laps. Well, actually I donÕt run complete laps, because I only run the sides. I have to walk on the ends of the track. One morning a lady at the track told me I should train for a marathon (like she does). I told her that I could never be a marathon runner because I live for the ÒendsÓ so I can walk!
This made me think of the race we call life. One day we will reach the end, and when we do, hopefully we will be able to say as Paul did, ÒI have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith.Ó When we read the book of Acts, we constantly read about the incredible faith of the Apostles. It was not easy to witness for the Lord as they did. They were beaten, imprisoned, and even put to death for the cause of Christ, but they kept the faith! They lived for the end when they would give account.
Let me encourage you to boldly witness to unbelievers, disciple new Christians, and encourage fellow believers in Christ. Live for the end!
ÒMust I go, and empty handed,Ó Thus my dear Redeemer meet?
Not one day of service give Him. Lay no trophy at His feet?
ÒMust I go, and empty-handed?Ó Must I meet my Saviour so?
Not one soul with which to greet Him: Must I empty handed go?
C. C. Luther