“And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith.” Hebrews 12:1-2

Time was what we wanted to save. AND we wanted something quick to eat. Going into the local fast food joint fit the criteria, so while Katie went to select a place to sit, I ordered our food at the counter. I didn’t realize my next move would create such a big issue. But it did!

Going to the drink station, I poured 2 drinks and took them to the table where Katie sat. Because there had been someone both before and after me in line, AND because the Drive Thru was running, I knew I had time. So I sat down to ask her a question. Bad move!

Walking back up to the counter, I watched as 2 servers placed MY order into a bag, having just asked the man in line after me, “for here or to go?” The tickets in front of the servers were in correct order… but they weren’t looking at them. When I finally said, “I think you may have our orders mixed up,” my statement made it worse! They had no idea what to do next!

I get it! Having graduated from Whopper Jr. College back in 1976, I remembered how hectic things could get and how just 1 little thing could throw my system off. One of the big lessons in life is to learn HOW to get back on track and NOT ‘stand there looking like a deer in the headlights’ for TOO long. Lately, I’ve had to remind myself of that lesson.

I have a weakness for distractions like I do with a box of vanilla wafers. Without realizing it, I can hit the bottom with only, “What have I done?” to show for it! Hunger, lack of time, disinterest and a host of other things can set me looking for a way out that is only temporary… and not good. Thank God for today’s verse.

Sin, imperfection and failure are companions that I’d rather NOT have in my boat. But I have to be honest, I DON’T have it all together, DON’T always do the right things and far too often find myself behind the 8 ball of life because of my failure to pay attention. But strangely, it is in those confusing times that Jesus turns out to be my very best friend!

This verse tells me that JESUS marks out the race FOR me, pioneer’s my faith, and then guarantees it will hold me until the end to ensure my victory! I wish I could say that my response in any confusing situation is to look to Him IMMEDIATELY. But that would not be the truth. Sometimes, and far too often, I choose to take the distraction. Jesus never does and ALWAYS points me forward.

So… what’s got YOUR attention?