[ Today's Readings ]
Do you not know that the runners in the stadium all run in the race,
but only one wins the prize?
Paul is not racing against others. He is racing for a prize. This is how he has the freedom of spirit to be a slave in regard to all. If he were racing against them he would always insist on his full rights in the gospel. He wouldn't take the time to become all things to all to save at least some. He would run and leave them in the dust. But his race is one where the more people who cross the finish line together the better. It is worth any individual sacrifice to get himself and as many others as he can to the finish line.
The level of focus required for this race means we can't let other people distract us. We can't critique their own slight errors of form while we ourselves and any who follow us careen off the road.
Can a blind person guide a blind person?
Will not both fall into a pit?
We need to put everything we can into the race we run. We get no closer to the goal no matter how accurate are our criticisms of others.
Why do you notice the splinter in your brother’s eye,
but do not perceive the wooden beam in your own?
Rather, let us run so as to win. Let us run with eyes clear, fixed on the prize. Let us run straight for the goal so that others may follow.
My soul yearns and pines
for the courts of the LORD.
My heart and my flesh
cry out for the living God.
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