How to Persevere and Keep Your Eyes on Jesus

I was honored to participate in my friend Mary Lizzie’s memorial; her life was long and she ran her race with endurance.

For 97 years she reflected the love of Jesus and demonstrated extraordinary perseverance.

Preparing her eulogy, I wondered how to sum up 97 years of life in five minutes. And not any life but one overflowing with love, gratitude, and joy

Finding a way to express a layer of Mary Lizzie was a difficult and rewarding assignment.

Mary Lizzie did not have an easy life but a good one filled with the joy of the Lord. She focused on sharing the love of God with anyone fortunate enough to cross her path.

She was not a celebrity or Olympian but a good and faithful servant who ran her race by keeping her eyes on Jesus, her champion.

Perseverance is often minimalized because celebrity, success, and microwave satisfaction are a big part of our culture.

Perseverance requires a slow and steady commitment to a purpose.

How do we persevere in faith staying on the path God has designed for us? How do we not grow weary as we tackle life’s challenges? How do we finish our race strong to the end of our lives?

Moment by moment and day by day.

“This is the day that the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.” --Psalms 118:24

 We don’t have to be the best and win at everything, we have to be obedient and show up.

Our most important mission is to love and pursue Jesus with all our hearts as we look more like him helping others along the way.

We don’t know if we have 97 years to live but we have today-

We choose how to face obstacles, push through, and persevere. 

We also choose how we treat others and show love, gratitude, and joy.

How can we do this without giving up and growing weary?

Making time for a daily encounter with Jesus … just like Magnificent Mary Lizzie.

We grow closer to Jesus, are encouraged, and love others out of the abundance of love we receive from Him.

“Sit with people who sit at the feet of Jesus. The conversations are different. You walk away feeling inspired and not inferior. These are the people who know this Christian walk is a race, but Not a competition.” -- Unknown

Question for Reflection:

1. Have you ever stopped to ponder what your legacy might be?

2. Where does God fit in that legacy?

3. What steps do you need to take to ensure your light for Jesus shines brightly when others consider what you will be remembered for?