Except for a few weeks in the summer, it's dark when I run. This time of year, it's dark the entire time I'm out, so for safety's sake, my reflective vest is required equipment. I used to rely on white shirts, and as long as I'm on the track or at the park, I guess those are adequate. But out on the road I need something better
In the same way, running our Christian race, we run in a really dark world and it's critical that we reflect Jesus. Oh sure, in the safety of our churches and our circle of friends, we might be able to get by with just our white shirts. On the dark streets, though, the reflected light shines brighter than any shirt ever could.
So as you get your running gear on, are you relying on your shirt, or are you reflecting Jesus?
Do all things without grumbling or questioning, that you may be blameless and innocent, children of God without blemish in the midst of a crooked and twisted generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world, holding fast to the word of life, so that in the day of Christ I may be proud that I did not run in vain or labor in vain. Phil 2:14-16 ESV