Going for the Goal
Bible Reading: Hebrews 12:1-3
Author: Elaine M. Brown (Perthshire, Scotland)
Author: Elaine M. Brown (Perthshire, Scotland)
Wednesday 13 May 2026 © The Upper Room.
Every summer, cyclists from Britain and abroad arrive to take part in a 70-mile rally along the country roads in the area where I live, which starts and ends outside our church.
This year, on my way to morning worship, I mingled with the people who had gathered.
What excitement! Adults and children shouted, waved and jumped whenever weary competitors crossed the finishing line. A piper in full Highland dress welcomed them. The cyclists were relieved and delighted as they completed the long, hard route.
Later, I reflected on that scene and recognised how clearly it illustrated Hebrews 12:1–3. The cyclists travelled light. Nothing slowed them down; even their clothes were body-tight. As they set off, they had a single aim: to complete the course, whatever challenges it presented.
We may not be cyclists or runners, but all who belong to Jesus are in a race together.
Let us encourage one another not to get sidetracked or to give up. Instead, let us fix our eyes on Jesus, who knows from experience each challenge we face.
He guides us to the finishing line, where a ‘great cloud of witnesses’ (Hebrews 12:1) waits to cheer us home!
Prayer: Dear Lord Jesus, help us to fix our eyes on you and encourage one another to finish the race. Amen
