Words of Wisdom

Words of Wisdom Stay In The Race Last Sunday I had the privilege of hearing my father, Bishop Joe Ruffin, Sr., preach at a church founded years ago by one of his closest friends. After his friend passed, the ministry continued under his son‑in‑law, who now serves as pastor. At 89 years old, after more than 60 years of preaching, my father delivered a simple but profound message—one even a child could understand. He preached from 1 Corinthians 9:24: “Do you not know that those who run in a race all run, but one receives the prize? Run in such a way that you may obtain it.” His message was clear: Stay in the race. And when he says that, it carries weight. This is a man who lived through segregation and both overt and covert racism. A man who came from North Carolina to Washington, D.C. with a suitcase and $34 in his pocket. A man who gave his life to Jesus Christ over 65 years ago, preaching for over 60, and faithfully served God, his wife, his children, and his church. He is also a man who has endured deep personal loss—the untimely passing of my mother, his wife, and the heartbreaking death of a grandson. Yet after all of that, his message remains the same: Stay in the race. Whatever you’re facing, no matter how heavy life feels right now—stay in the race, and the Lord will see you through. Have a blessed Wednesday. Pastor Patrick Ruffin