I believe this photo, and videos like it, are the depiction of intensity. No half hearted effort here. That is what I find intriguing about the Apostle Paul. He was totally sold out to Jesus and the Church. His letters are intense. His method of evangelism was intentional. It consumed him.

In Colossians you find these words. “For this purpose I also labor, striving according to His power that works within me.” Also he shares; “For I want you to know how great a struggle I have on your behalf.” and, “Praying at the same time for us as well, that God will open up to us a door for the word, so that we may speak forth the mystery of Christ, for which we have been imprisoned.” Certainly no loping around here.

Too often our lives pale in comparison.

It delights me to think what my world would be like if you and I would be as intense in our efforts to reach the world for Christ as this gazelle is to escape the clutches of it’s captor. The Lion that is after us all is certainly just as intense and his zeal must be met with equal force.

Feel yourself getting tired in the chase? Remember Pauls’ use of the words, “His power that works within me.” God will supply the strength. He will also steer us in the right direction. Our job is not to get sidetracked, not to let ourselves be worn out by the destractions.

Put yourself in the place of the gazelle. What extra stuff are you carrying right now that is slowing you down, making you easy prey. Will you not decide with me today to renew your efforts to (1.) grow in Christ and (2.) reach another for Christ. To fail in this will certainly be disastrous.