While I don’t really consider myself a runner, I do try to get out for a few runs in the spring before the Run the Plank race (which St. Isidore participates in). I’m very competitive, always pushing myself as hard as I can, but like many athletes, after that first mile, I just want to quit. I want to give up.
The same thing sometimes happens in my professional life. There are occasions when I pour an incredible amount of time and energy into something, only to have it fall flat or be met with criticism. These situations make me want to walk away and never try again, but that’s not who I am. Eventually, I lace up my shoes (literally and figuratively) and get back out there.
In Sunday’s first reading (Numbers 21:4–9), the Israelites are ready to give up in the desert, despite all the incredible ways through which God had led them to freedom from Egypt. What does Moses do? He prays for them, and God instructs him to make a bronze serpent for the people to look up to, and in doing so, they heal and live.
The Gospel (John 3:13–17) pairs beautifully with this moment: “And just as Moses lifted up the serpent in the desert, so must the Son of Man be lifted up, so that everyone who believes in him may have eternal life.”
Jesus was lifted up on the Cross not to condemn us but to save us. Looking to Him brings life. We’ve all had moments where we’ve wanted to quit, but somewhere along the way, we found the strength to keep going, and faith is the driving force.
It’s simple, and it may not sound new, but sometimes we need a reminder. When the struggle is real and you’re overwhelmed and ready to give up, stop and look up. Pray. God is always there to lift you and give you the strength to keep moving forward.
