That Great Cloud of Witnesses
(NIV) Heb 12:1 Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, 2 fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. 3 Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.
Do you ever think about that great cloud of witnesses? The author had just listed what is called the roll call of the faithful in Chapter 11. He then reminds us that those who persevered, not because they achieved God’s promises on earth but because they relied upon them, make up these witnesses. And I imagine them in an arena, and I am running a race. I am exhausted, close to losing hope, yet there is a mighty roar, and and I begin to understand the words—come on, Carol, keep going, you can do it!
I imagine my family and friends are in that great gathering, and they, too, cover me with prayers offered up over many years, and the prayer bowls where these petitions are stored are poured out upon me just when I need them the most.
We may be surrounded by people, or we may lead a solitary existence, but God’s promise that He will never leave you or forsake you is not conditional. And therefore, we can have confidence regardless of our circumstances, that faith will carry us through.
May we remain so grounded in God’s Word that our confidence will not be shaken, but instead we will press on toward the goal remaining strong in the Lord.
In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, Amen.
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