Mediocre comes from two Latin words, medius meaning “middle” and orcis meaning “rugged mountain”. If you were to translate it literally it means to stop halfway up to the summit of a difficult mountain. Meriam-Webster dictionary defines it as “of moderate or low quality, value, ability, or performance”. Something that is mediocre might be described as passable, so-so, run-of-mill, or ordinary. Mediocrity often manifests itself as a compromise of our abilities and potential in search of a more comfortable, easy path.
Don’t settle for mediocrity. As Christ-followers we are called to run with strength and endurance as we live for our Lord. Consider also the example that Jesus has set for us. Here is a scripture that puts into perspective for us.
1 Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, 2 looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God. -Hebrews 12:1-2, ESV
Now there is nothing mediocre about Jesus. He isn’t of low quality or ability. He certainly doesn’t fall into the category of so-so or passable. He most certainly didn’t stop halfway up the summit of a difficult mountain. Rather our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ marched up that hill called Golgtha enduring the shame and suffering of the cross. He didn’t give up or settle. He pressed on to fulfill His purpose until He could say, “It is finished (John 19:30).”
Now if the spirit of our Lord resides with us, how should we live? Should we settle for mediocrity? By no means! We are to the live with the same strength, passion, and endurance that our Lord displayed for us. He is the author and perfector of our faith, a faith that is anything but mediocre. Perhaps we avoid some hardship when settle in our faith, but we also miss the view from the top of the mountain. It’s a view and reward reserved for those who endure. Lately, you may have felt like settling for mediocrity in your walk with God. Don’t do it! Press on until you too can say, “It is finished!”