Chasing the Rabbit

The theologian Fred Craddock used to tell a story about a retired racing greyhound. The dog had spent ten years running professionally — around the track, day after day, chasing a mechanical rabbit. Then one day he got close enough for a good look.

It was fake.

"I spent my whole life chasing a fake rabbit," the dog said. "I didn't retire. I quit."

Most of us know that feeling, even if we'd rather not admit it. We spend years running hard after something — more money, a bigger house, a better title, a new location — convinced that this is the thing that will finally make life feel complete. And sometimes we get close enough to see it clearly.

It doesn't satisfy. Not the way we imagined. The achievement arrives and the emptiness is still there, quiet but persistent.

Jesus said, "I came that they may have life, and have it abundantly." (John 10:10) Not more stuff. Not a faster track. Life — deep, rooted, genuinely full.

The question worth reflecting on today is simply this: what rabbit have you been chasing? And is it real?

Prayer: Lord Jesus, forgive us for the things we have chased that could never truly satisfy. Turn our hearts toward what is real and lasting — the life you came to give, the love that does not disappoint. Help us to run toward you. Amen.

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