Eye on the Prize...

1 Corinthians 9.24-25

Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize. ...They do it to get a crown that will not last; but we do it to get a crown that will last forever.

Tonight my favorite contestant … from the beginning… was crowned as the 2008 American Idol.  Congrats, David Cook!  The kids and I had so much fun watching the show each week as the contestants gave it their all.  (Yes, we even talked Russ into watching as the season progressed.)

Some competitors showcased more talent than others.  Some contestants put forth extra effort.  Some looked good but didn't have the vocal chops to make it very far.  Some persevered through sickness ... and disco.  Hard work, determination and good choices proved to be crucial.  In the end, however,  only one winner would be crowned.  One incredibly talented and determined young man won the prize that will catapult him to rock star fame.  His eye was on the prize the entire time.

The Apostle Paul, a man well acquainted with “idols”, encourages believers to keep our eye on the prize as well.    The difference between the prize that David Cook won and the one Paul refers to is this … one is temporary, and the other is eternal.  What is the eternal prize?  I believe it is knowing Christ … fully.  As we spend time in the Word of God, running our race, we get closer to that prize each day. (Thankfully, our prize is not dependent on talent, skill or looks!  Nor will we be voted off for bad performances. :D)

Rock on!