The Prize

Jockey Tony McCoy yesterday reached the incredible total of 3,000 winning rides, a record that sets him far apart from any other jockey in history.

I don’t know much about racing, but I know that a record like this can only have been achieved through the most incredible focus and self-discipline. Jockeys, especially jump jockey’s like McCoy, have a tough life – early starts, all weathers, a starvation diet to keep weight down, regular falls and accompanying injuries. I’m sure McCoy has made some money from his efforts, but it certainly hasn’t been the easy way.

Church leadership often feels a bit like being a jump jockey. It takes a lot of discipline to keep going, a lot of focus and determination. It is costly, and involves many bumps and bruises. There is always another obstacle to jump, another challenge to face.

This is why the Apostle Paul uses the analogy of the athlete and boxer to describe his ministry (1 Corinthians 9:34-37). You don’t win many races from an armchair.

There must have been many times when the armchair looked the better option – to Paul and to McCoy – but real leaders love to win, and are sure that the prize is worth the price.

Keep on racing!