There is just something about the coming of the fall season. School has begun, there's renewed hope in the air of having a great school year, there's a whole new class of young drivers on the road to watch out for, there's homecoming floats to get ready, there's the sound of the band practicing early in the morning, and there's FOOTBALL. I played linebacker at Tahlequah High School in the early 80s. Go Tigers! So, I know a little about the excitement of football season.

All of those things seemed tremendously important at the time. But as we all know, the years go by and a little perspective tends to put life's events in the proper order.

The apostle Paul, who was growing older, told young Timothy these important words to live by: “For physical training is of some value, but godliness has value for all things, holding promise for both the present life and the life to come.” (1 Tim. 4:8)

I get the idea that Paul must have watched his share of sporting events. In 1 Corinthians 9:24-27, he makes spiritual applications of running a race to get the prize. He talks about those who compete in the games going into strict training, and he talks about a fighter who only beats the air. Of course, in each of these Paul is really talking about the game of life and where it leads.

The writer of Hebrews (possibly Paul) talks about running the race with perseverance (Heb. 12:1-2). Which race? The writer says “…the race marked out for us.” He goes on to say that Jesus endured the cross because of the joy set before him. His goal was that of saving our souls through his life, crucifixion and resurrection. That was the “joy set before him.” He did it for us. Amazing thought, isn't it? Just how far would you go to save someone's soul?

Jesus then victoriously sat at the right hand of God in order to encourage us and give us a goal that we can attain. We can make it to heaven by following Christ's example of living a life dedicated to serving and loving God, and serving and loving others. It's only by God's grace that he gives us such a plan to follow.

If you want a real challenge with a real reward, living for God in an increasingly immoral world is the toughest challenge any of us will ever face. But it is also the only challenge that comes with a reward of eternal life in heaven where there are no worries, no pain, no death, only joy and praise of God the Father who makes it all possible. Real victory comes for those who have the choice to live life however they want, but choose to live it for God who in turn gives the richest blessings of all, peace and joy, now and later.

Being on God's team can feel lonely, especially when we look at the world's team which has so many members. But when it's time for God's team to march victoriously into the end zone of heaven, many on the opposing team will want to switch sides. But for them it will be too late. Please pray today that God gives us the wisdom and perseverance to suit up and play for him everyday until the clock on life's scoreboard runs out.

Reach Barrett Vanlandingham at Fort Gibson Church of Christ, 478-2222 or ftgcoc_barrett@sbcglobal.net.