The Finish Runway

Taylor entered his coordinates into the dashboard computer, and his location popped up on the screen. He did some quick figuring, glad now that he had paid attention in geometry, and plotted the last leg of his flight. Only 1,312,569 more miles and he’d be home. He could see Earth in the distance, a miniature cobalt crescent. He yawned widely, programmed in a new series of coordinates, and engaged autopilot. The Perseverance had been a reliable ship for his first Steel Bones Space Marathon, a biennial, interplanetary race. The craft was also well-named, as the ever-changing route always encompassed at least five planets. He’d spent the last eight weeks alone in this tiny space. A cheeseburger and a hot shower had never sounded so good. At fifteen, Taylor was this year’s youngest contestant. He couldn’t hope to win against the field of more experienced flyers, but he had trained hard, preparing his mind and body for the rigors of the race. He hoped to finish within the qualifying time for membership in the prestigious Pendleton Academy, where he’d pursue a degree in space exploration. That prize had kept him well focused. As he neared home, Earth’s beautiful blues and greens filled his windshield. He throttled down and adjusted his angle to reenter the atmosphere. As he did, the ban on communications lifted. His sister Ella filled his screen. “Taylor, you did it!” she exclaimed. “You’re within five hours of the deadline!” Taylor grinned, well aware of it but appreciating her enthusiasm nonetheless. The camera shifted and his parents appeared. “Taylor, we’re so proud of you!” Dad shouted. Mom beamed her agreement, too choked up to speak. Australia loomed large. Sydney came into view, and then the finish runway. The Perseverance’s wheels touched down. Taylor taxied toward the terminal and disembarked into a huge crush of spectators. He gasped, recognizing friends, neighbors, and schoolmates. They were all shouting! Congratulating him! Welcoming him home! With a wide grin, he embraced his mom and dad. The hard work and long weeks were suddenly forgotten. The sacrifices had all been worth it. • Michelle Isenhoff • Reread today’s Bible verses. How can the Christian walk be compared to a race? • Why is “keeping our eyes on Jesus” so important (Hebrews 12:2)? Therefore, since we also have such a large cloud of witnesses surrounding us .Let us run with endurance the race that lies before us, keeping our eyes on Jesus, the source and perfecter of our faith. Hebrews 12:1-2a (CSB)

Read Verses:

Acts 20:22-24; 1 Corinthians 9:24-27; Hebrews 12:1-3