Cheers

During the Special Olympics, the TV cameras caught some parents on the sidelines mimicking every movement, every step and every breath their children took and then cheering wildly when they finished the race.  You could tell their hearts were leaping with joy and encouragement for their own..

I picture God doing that too; holding his breath as we take a step, cheering our every moment and celebrating with us when we finish the race. 

For I am already about to be sacrificed [my life is about to be poured out as a drink offering]; the time of my [spirit’s] release [from the body] is at hand and I will soon go free.  I have fought the good (worthy, honorable, and noble) fight, I have finished the race, I have kept (firmly held) the faith.

[As to what remains] henceforth there is laid up for me the [victor’s] crown of righteousness [for being right with God and doing right], which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me and recompense me on that [great] day—and not to me only, but also to all those who have loved and yearned for and welcomed His appearing (His return).  (2 Timothy 4:6-8, AMP)

Prayer- Oh God, thank you, thank you, thank you. You’ve already cheered so many of our loved ones through to the end and we count on you to do the same for us. In Christ. Amen.