Winning the Race, Reflection on 1 Corinthians 9:24-27

In last week's reading, Paul said that he was willing to be under Jewish law to convince fellow Jews, and willing to be outside his own tradition for the Gentiles. He was willing to change a stance that was not requisite for a Christian life. 


But, he was not preaching no standards at all.


In this week's reading he uses the metaphors of running and boxing. He says that athletes train and compete so they can get a wreath as a prize. It's a prize but not one that lasts. Christians, on the other hand, are striving for an imperishable prize. 

Being a Christian requires effort and discipline. Preaching the gospel (by word or deed) may turn out to be as strenuous as running a marathon. Do it anyway.