Toe the Mark
Before a race, runners toe the mark.
They place their toes at the starting line, never beyond it. The smallest movement too far disqualifies them. If they want to win, they must follow the rules.
The same requirement applies to a children’s race, a fundraiser for charity, or the Olympics.
We never outgrow rules.
So why do we sometimes ignore them? Why do we act like they apply to other people but not us?
Although not always fun, rules make life easier for everyone. This holds true not only in games but in everything we do.
Yes, some people cheat and never get caught. Yet, they will always know they did not deserve the victory? They will always wonder if their deceit will be discovered. They can never relax and completely enjoy their prize.
A runner who breaks the rules loses only a game. In life, we risk losing far more:
- Our self-respect.
- The respect of others.
- Our good name.
- The ability to enjoy life.
Let’s play by the rules.
In everything, let’s do what’s right. That way we win, whether we cross the finish line first or not.
“You’ve all been to the stadium and seen the athletes race. Everyone runs; one wins. Run to win. All good athletes train hard. They do it for a gold medal that tarnishes and fades. You’re after one that’s gold eternally” (1 Corinthians 9:24-25 MSG).
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