March 20, 2018

Together

March 20, 2018

DAILY READING

John 19:30

This weekend’s reading: John 19:30

FIELD NOTES
On the cross, Jesus cries out, “It is finished!”

Most people do not remember a single athlete or gold medal winner at the 1992 Barcelona Summer Olympics, but many people do remember an inspirational moment from that event.

Derek Redmond was Team USA’s hope for winning the 400-meter race. He started well. At the 150-meter mark, Derek’s right hamstring pulled resulting in him falling to the ground. Medics ran to him as he knelt on the track in agony.

Suddenly, Derek leaped up and began limping around the track. At about the 300-meter mark, a man ran onto the track passing security. It was his father, who upon reaching Derek said, “You don’t have to do this.” Derek replied, “Yes, I do.” His father then said, “We’re going to finish this together!”

His father put Derek’s arm around his shoulders, and together they went toward the finish line. Just before the finish line, his father lets him finish the race by himself to a standing ovation of 65,000 spectators.

Derek did not win first place, but with his father’s help, Derek became a winner.

Watch that inspirational moment unfold here.

Paul said that he fought the good fight and that he finished the race. He did it with the help of God the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.

QUESTIONS FOR THE FIELD

  • Like Derek’s father, who in the past has helped you when you were limping through a struggle?
  • Who have you helped to complete their race?
  • How had Jesus helped you finish some of your races?

FAMILY FIELD TALK

  • Who are people who helped you the most through school?
  • Who are people who helped you through a difficult time?
  • Does anyone in our family need to ask for help right now?

PRAYER GUIDE
Most loving gracious Lord, just as God was with you on the cross helping you finish your race, I pray for you to help me in some situations in which I find myself right now. I pray for you to help me help others who need my help limping through their lives. Lord, help us all fight the good fight and finish the race. In your gracious name, I pray. Amen.