Do you not know that in a race all the runners compete, but only one receives the prize? So run that you may obtain it.
Every athlete exercises self-control in all things. They do it to receive a perishable wreath, but we an imperishable.
Well, I do not run aimlessly, I do not box as one beating the air;
but I pommel my body and subdue it, lest after preaching to others I myself should be disqualified. (1 Corinthians 9: 24-27)
Heavenly Father,
As Saint Paul uses sport to call us to a greater example of faith,
We too seek to win our race while seeking the imperishable victory of eternal life.
Help us to work diligently to achieve our goals on this earth,
But never to forget that our ultimate goal lies in heaven.
May the decisions we make on our team and in our life
Reflect the glory of God as we seek to fulfill His will.
With this in mind, help us to focus on the task at hand,
To exercise self-control, and to give our full effort.
That in this way, we too may win the prize,
Both here and when our race is done.
Amen.
