Observe the sportsmen who care for the race in front of them; they chose to wear dresses that are simple and light. Running in the race of faith, the believer also should make sure that he is not bothered by anything that hinders or is heavy. The author of the book of Hebrews suggests us to get rid of every weight that hinders out effective running: “Therefore, since we have so great a cloud of witnesses surrounding us, let us also lay aside every encumbrance and the sin which so easily entangles us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us.” (Heb 12:1) Every sin that we commit suppresses the soul with the heavy burden, as experienced by the psalmist: “For my iniquities have gone over my head; Like a heavy burden they are too heavy for me.” (Ps 38:4) May we focus on the goal we need to reach, and lay aside every form of sin that crushes our soul with the burden of guilt and discomfort.

Abba, Thank You for the reminder of the baggage of sins that overwhelm us. Let Your Spirit give us the courage to lay aside everything that entangles us, In Jesus’ Most Wonderful Name, Amen.