“Let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us” (Hebrews 12:2).
I love how this verse compares the Christian life to running a race. It’s not a sprint; it’s a marathon. It’s not about how fast you start; it’s about how strong you finish. You’ve got to be focused, determined, and ready to endure. But here’s the key: to run your best race, you have to let go of the weight.
Think about a runner preparing for a marathon. They don’t show up wearing a backpack full of rocks. They don’t lace up heavy boots or layer on bulky clothes. No, they strip down to the essentials—lightweight shoes, breathable gear, everything designed for speed and endurance. Some even shave their heads to reduce resistance! Why? Because every ounce matters. The lighter they are, the faster and farther they can go.
In the same way, we need to shed anything that’s holding us back in life. Maybe it’s the weight of worry, the sin of comparison, or the baggage of past mistakes. Maybe it’s distractions—too much social media, unhealthy relationships, or chasing after things that don’t matter in eternity. Whatever it is, it’s time to let it go. Because the truth is, you can’t run your best race if you’re carrying unnecessary weight.
In 334 BC the army of Alexander the Great was advancing on Persia. At one critical point, it appeared that his troops might be defeated. They were weighed down by the spoils of their last victory. The gold, the treasures—it all seemed valuable, but it was slowing them down. Alexander commanded his men to burn the plunder. They weren’t happy about it at first, but once the weight was gone, they felt lighter, faster, unstoppable. The same is true for us. Victory goes to the light and nimble.
So, friends, lay aside every weight. Let go of what’s slowing you down. Focus on the race God has set before you, and run with endurance. You have what it takes. You’ve got the power of the Holy Spirit within you every step of the way, giving you the strength to keep going.
Such great wisdom, so simply stated. I have a file entitled "Words from the Bishop" on my computer desktop, for your messages that resonate with me, and "Run Light, Finish Strong" is a keeper.
My wife, Naomi Thovmasian Marsh, is a member of the church council at St. Sahag and Mesrob Church in Providence, and she forwards your missives to me.
Nim Marsh (who became a card-carrying Christian at the age of 48) and who knows beyond the shadow of a doubt that God loves him and nudges him from time to time to ensure that his passage is safe and productive.