Press With Passion!

Do you “hit” or “press” the keys on your keyboard?  Believe it or not, gently pressing does the trick; but we usually say "hit the key."  I learned to use the word “press" years ago as I watched first grade students doing exactly as they were told … hitting the keys!

 

Paul encouraged Christians to “press on.”  The word “press” brings to my mind the basketball press of long ago, and it was hard!  Back in-the-days, we played six-on-six -- 2 stationary offensive (forwards), 2 stationary defensive (guards), and 2 rovers (played full-court).  Because there were always 4 players confined to each end of the court, there was nothing leisurely about getting the ball up-court in seconds: it required strategy and talent!  Paul wrote, "I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus." (Philippians 3:14).  The Greek word "press" carries with it the idea of a runner pursuing a particular goal – the finish line in sight.  The runner must stay focused, keeping the main-thing the main-thing in the race to the end.  Do you remember riding your bike downhill – oh, those downhill stints were best; no peddling, just coasting and enjoying the wind in your face.  There is no "coasting" for the Believer who seeks to finish life strong, in truth and righteousness.  It's hard work, this bearing down, but it's work-with-purpose.  The key to working through a defensive press on the court was to keep your head up – looking to see who's open then pass the ball!  Keeping in sight the eternal Prize, let us remain faithful -- run with enthusiasm and commitment this race [of life]. Press on with passion!