A Rugged Road
I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.
— 2 Timothy 4:7
The Baja 1000 is an extreme endurance race through the Mexican desert. It is the longest non-stop point-to-point race in the world. Competitors battle with rugged terrain, untamed wilderness, and unpredictable weather as they drive through mountains, ravines, and beaches. Pouring rain, thick fog, blinding dust storms, night conditions, and even wild cows are just some of the hazards along the way. And because it is the desert, there are no signs telling you where to go. Typically, only half of the competitors even finish the race.
Ford has competed in the Baja 1000 numerous times over the past 50 years. From our win in 1969 with the original Bronco, to the current Raptor taking third place in 2016, we have learned a few things about what it takes to succeed in the brutal conditions of the Baja 1000. Like any competition, it takes preparation, patience, discipline, and teamwork to succeed. But in something as treacherous as the Baja 1000, all of that only matters for as long as you can keep your truck running. Which means covering it in armor is crucial.
The apostle Paul teaches a similar lesson when it comes to life. He tells us that life is a daily battle against the schemes of the devil. We are going to face obstacles, we are going to take some hits along the way, and we are not always going to know the exact route to the finish line. But in order to finish strong, we need to withstand these blows and keep moving forward. Therefore, he urges us to put on the full armor of God so that we can take our stand. So that day by day, through God’s strength, we can fight the good fight and finish the race.
The Armor of God
For this reason take up the full armor of God, so that you may be able to resist in the evil day, and having prepared everything, to take your stand. Stand, therefore, with truth like a belt around your waist, righteousness like armor on your chest, and your feet sandaled with readiness for the gospel of peace. In every situation take up the shield of faith with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit — which is the word of God. Pray at all times in the Spirit with every prayer and request, and stay alert with all perseverance and intercession for all the saints.
— Ephesians 6:13–18
Like the desert terrain of Baja California, life is a rugged road. I encourage you to take a moment today to reflect on what obstacles you are currently facing in life. What is something that you could start doing today to put on the armor of God?
