Madness or Unique Prize?

In Minnesota the month of March is considered one of the snowiest months of the year.  This kind of weather might be thought of as madness or maddening.  Some people like the snow but some people do not.  One redeeming quality of getting snow in March is that it will soon melt when the warmth of late winter/early spring emerges.

 

“March Madness” is an event that takes place in March when 64 collegiate basketball teams qualify or are invited to participate in the NCAA tournament.  In this single elimination tournament the teams begin play and one by one those who lose fall by the wayside.  The goal is to be the last one standing by winning every game and being declared the NCAA National Champion.  Of course, the winning team receives the coveted title and the trophy that goes with .it.  Some people like the tournament, but some do not.  To be the last team standing takes skill, dedication, hard work, persistence and patience.

 

In a gospel account, the Apostle Paul compared his life to an athletic competition when he said, “I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 3:14).  He was not referring to “madness” but to a prize.  No one who follows after God looses, only those who do not pursue Him.  The prize he referred to was not just a trophy or a national title, but something much greater.  Notice: (1) The prize is a goal – therefore, we need to go after it; (2) The prize is obtainable – so we have the assurance that it can be reached; (3) The prize is something that God offers – it is His call to us; (4) The prize centers in God’s Son, Jesus Christ – it is through Him that we have a personal relationship with the God of the universe; and (5) The prize will require intense endeavor – for we need to pursue it.

 

As we launch into the spring season, what intrigues you the most – March Madness or the heavenly prize?  One might be fun to watch, but one is very beneficial for your life.  What do you need to do to keep your eye on the prize and strive for that which God has called you?  What might you need to do to turn some of the madness which you experience into the challenge to live a godly life?  Trust God and press on toward the goal.