Greetings Cascade Family & Friends, 

A good, but tough question is: How can I know what God wants me to do with my life ?  In broad terms, the answer is easy:  God wants us to live a purpose-driven life and serve others as Christ taught us.  A more personal way to ask the question is: What do I want to do with my life?" Christians believe that God has a master plan for every life; yet, He gives us the responsibility to choose to live a life that pleases Him.  This choice requires us to be different-to dare to be a disciple and put our best foot forward. The Hebrews 12:1-3 passage is one of the most stirring because it motivates us to run and keep on running in this Christian race.

The upcoming November 8 th election serves as a reminder of just how critical it is for all of us to be a part of the resolve to Run to Win .  We remember our Saints on whose shoulders we stand ("so great a cloud of witnesses").  Not only does this "cloud of witnesses" include the Biblical characters, but it also refers to our ancestors who sacrificed and paid the price for us to enjoy the right and privilege to vote. Verse 3 of the referenced scripture reminds us to "Consider him (Jesus) who endured opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart."

As an American, it is our moral right and civic duty to vote. Yet, some will say that it's not worth the effort and pain of standing in long lines. Others will say that it's just easier to sit and watch how things turn out, "After all, my vote won't matter." Some of the more intellectual population and even Christians have said, " Both of them are evil" or "I don't like either one." And...?  The reality is: One will still win. Furthermore, after the dust settles, we will still need to "throw off everything that hinders us and run with perseverance the race marked out for us."

Friends, this Christian race is real. It is difficult, challenging and costly. This election is real . The difference between those who vote and those who don't, comes from how highly they evaluate the prize and how much they think it takes to get it. I recommend Jesus, who is the Author and Perfecter of all races in life. He provides the example and energy we need to run well and finish strong--to the degree that we keep our eyes fixed on Him; that is exactly what we will do.

On to the finish line! Get out and vote early! Run to Win!

Blessings,

Rev. Joyce E. Banks Gross

Senior Associate Pastor