The Joy of the Journey: Keep Going

The Joy of the Journey

Keep Going

In 1983, the Sydney to Melbourne Ultramarathon, a 573.7-mile footrace of incredible endurance, attracted elite runners from around the world.   It also attracted Cliff Young, a 61-year-old farmer who had no formal training as a runner.  He ran the race mainly because he had a strong belief in his ability to finish. Clad in overalls and boots, he looked out of place among the highly trained athletes.

Young had a unique approach to running. Unlike most runners who followed a strict schedule of running and resting, Young employed a strategy that involved running continuously for longer periods without traditional sleep breaks. His method was unconventional but effective, as he tapped into his own endurance and determination.

As the race progressed, Young found himself steadily gaining ground on the competition. While others were stopping to rest, he kept running, fueled by a strong desire to prove that age should not be a barrier to accomplishing great things. His simple and humble demeanor won the hearts of many.

Incredibly, Cliff Young not only completed the race but finished first, doing so in a time of 5 days, 15 hours, and 4 minutes. His victory was a remarkable moment in sports history, showcasing the themes of perseverance, determination, and the belief that obstacles can be overcome with the right mindset and relentless spirit. (You can read more about Cliff Young at www.bensmithsr.org/ponderings/just-keep-running-the-story-of-cliff-young)

The Christian life is often depicted as a race or a journey, emphasizing that our walk with Christ requires perseverance, courage, and reliance on God’s strength. Jesus warned His disciples, Matthew 10:22, “You will be hated by all for my name’s sake. But the one who endures to the end will be saved.” Endurance is not optional; it reflects a genuine faith and is essential for this life and eternal life.

Trials are fundamental to the believer’s growth. James encourages us to “count it all joy” when facing various trials, understanding that they forge steadfastness in our faith (James 1:2-3). While we may not rejoice in pain, we can find joy in the maturity and deeper trust in God that trials produce. Similarly, Paul reminds us that “suffering produces endurance, and endurance produces character, and character produces hope” (Romans 5:3-4). This hope is built on God’s promises, as we learn to see trials as tools that shape us for His purposes.

Endurance depends not on our strength but on Christ’s power. We are commanded in Ephesians 6:10 to “be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might”. In moments of weariness, we can declare, “God is the strength of my heart” (Psalm 73:26). God sustains us through His Word and prayer, which remind us of His faithfulness. As Paul states in Romans 15:4, “Through endurance and the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope”.

Staying focused on the goal is crucial. Hebrews 12:1–2 encourages us to run with endurance, focusing on Jesus, who endured the cross for the joy set before Him. Likewise, in Philippians, Paul said he was pressing on toward the goal of God’s calling in Christ Jesus.  This perspective helps us rise above present hardships.  We are not meant to endure alone. The early church encouraged believers to remain steadfast through troubled times.  Fellowship with other Christians strengthens our resolve; their prayers, counsel, and presence are vital to sustaining our endurance.  This helps us focus on the end goal…heaven!

In conclusion, the prize awaiting us is glorious. Jesus promisesin Revelation 3:5, “The one who conquers will be clothed thus in white garments”. James adds, “Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial” (James 1:12). Endurance isn’t about perfection but persistence, empowered by God’s Spirit and focused on His glory. When we stumble, we rise again; when weary, we draw from His strength. And as we approach the finish line, we will see that every step was worth it.  I have said this many times through the years: the mark of a faithfulChristian is not someone who never stumbles or falls. The mark of a faithful Christian is that when we stumble and fall, we get up, dust our knees off, and keep on running the race.