The double checkered flags signify the end of the race. The first car to cross the start/finish line under the flags is declared the winner. The race is finished. Having the freedom to pursue the checkered flag is something we need to appreciate. Greetings in the name of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
With each beginning comes an end, there is a green flag that is followed by a checkered one. So life goes, what is begun has to be finished. As Jesus hung on the cross, what He came to do was done, He made atonement for us. He pronounced it finished.
John 19:30; When he had received the drink, Jesus said, “It is finished.” With that, he bowed his head and gave up his spirit.
Christ came and gave his life for us, he bore the weight of our sin and reconciled each one for us to God. He came to save our souls from eternal separation from God and that is what he accomplished. He gave us the freedom of forgiveness. John writes;
John 3:16-17, For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him.
We also come to this part of our study at an opportune time to remember those who have given so much for the freedom we enjoy in America. As we look ahead to celebrate Memorial Day. We remember those who have given everything they had for our freedom.
I am reminded of the poem “Freedom isn’t Free”. It helps us to recall the memory of those who paid the ultimate sacrifice in the giving of their lives. Their willingness to give secures, to this day, our freedom. Freedom to do what we enjoy, racing.
I was thinking the other day what would this country look like if we weren’t free? Would there even be racing, as we know it. On any given weekend I can choose where I go to watch a race. You can choose where to race. If you don’t like going to a certain track you can choose another. We have the freedom of choice. That is not something to take lightly.
Stop and think of all the choices we can make in our life and then think of some of the other nations in the world who don’t have the same option. The difference is freedom. The founders of our country decided to organize this nation on the foundation of God and freedom of choice. We have fought for over 200 years to maintain that, not only for us but also for other nations and peoples of the world.
As we close out our series on the words of Christ from the cross I wanted to note a few parallels, seven statements, seven days in creation. Also note on the seventh day it was time to stop and rest. Christ finished his work and then went home to be with God. His last statement from the cross can be summed up like this, Dad, I’m coming home.
Luke 23:44-46, It was now about the sixth hour, and darkness came over the whole land until the ninth hour, for the sun stopped shining. And the curtain of the temple was torn in two. Jesus called out with a loud voice, “Father, into your hands I commit my spirit.” When he had said this, he breathed his last.
Jesus finished what he came to Earth to do and now was the time to return home. He was placed in a grave for three days and on the third day rose from the dead, ascended into heaven and is seated at the right hand of the Father. He had provided a means for the people of the world to save themselves.
Jesus Christ gave His life for us, to save us from death and destruction. Do you want to experience an abundant and free life that only comes from knowing Jesus Christ as your Savior? He gave His life to give you that opportunity, accept it and free yourself from the burden of sin.
Freedom isn’t free. It cost someone, something. Be thankful there are those who are willing to pay the price for our freedom. Thank them.
Until next time, remember God loves you and Jesus is Lord over Auto Racing! God Bless. Remember, that your prayerful support helps us continue this ministry. Thank You.
