2 Timothy 4:8 Henceforth there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, will award to me on that day, and not only to me but also to all who have loved his appearing.
We homeschooled both of our kids through eighth grade, and at the end of each school year, we joined with a few other homeschool families to reward our students for all their hard work. It became a tradition we all anticipated—a trip to Knoebles Amusement Park, tucked away in northeastern Pennsylvania. Knoebles bears the distinction of being the largest free-admission amusement park in the country. (If you know anything about homeschoolers, free things attract us like bears to honey).
One year when attendance in the park was low, we actually rode the roller coaster in back-to-back rides more times than I can remember! Our voices were almost hoarse from yelling “Hands up!” as the car climbed to the top of the track. It felt like the epitome of freedom and culmination of the year’s efforts.
Although accomplishments and achievements don’t define our worth, rewards prove to be an essential component of life. As C.S. Lewis writes, “rewards should be viewed as the consummation of our activity.” For example, marriage is the proper reward for a true lover; victory, the proper award for a hard-fighting general. For Christians, eternal life culminates earthly discipleship.
Paul didn’t want Timothy, like some, to fall short of his coming reward (2 Timothy 4). So he encouraged Timothy to keep preaching the word, to “reprove, rebuke, and exhort, with complete patience and teaching” (v.2). In fact, Paul declared everyone who loved the Lord will receive a reward. If you are a follower of Jesus, that means you! And me!
I know life can become weary. Sometimes we feel like hibernating from all the injustice, hatred and cruelty. Sometimes from our own hypocrisy. But don’t stop “fighting the good fight.” Don’t stop “keeping the faith” (v.7). And always remember God is pulling for you. He longs for you to experience the consummation of all your efforts.
He’s waiting to see you shout “Hands up” in praise as you finish your race and cross the finish line. And I promise, it will be more exhilarating than the best roller coaster in the world!