Article June 20, 1942 Issue

"Rejoiceth as a strong man"

ANNA STANTON LAY

Children usually delight in running races. They practice running not only to excel but for very joy. In manifesting dominion over their bodily movements they glimpse something of the joyous truth that Mind has given man dominion over all the earth. The childlike attitude of rejoicing in each new achievement rightly belongs to us in our spiritual growth.

In ancient times the services of the fleet runner were notable both in peace and in war. The sight of the king's messenger on the highway or of a man on some hillside bearing important neighborhood news was familiar to all. Mental as well as physical discipline was required to attain the speed, the sure-footedness, and the endurance necessary to run far and fast. In Greece, the Olympic games were often distinguished by the name of the winner of the foot races. In fact, the running of races and the courses for the practice of running were so common that the words "race" and "course" were frequently used figuratively.

The Psalmist's simile of rejoicing "as a strong man to run a race" and Paul's assurance disregarding the difficulties which awaited him in finishing his "course with joy" are vivid and illustrative.

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