A Great Cloud of Witnesses - November 21 Readings: Ezekiel 4–7, Hebrews 12:1–17, Psalm 128, Proverbs 28:17–19

Links to November 21 Readings: Ezekiel 4–7, Hebrews 12:1–17, Psalm 128, Proverbs 28:17–19

It is one of my favorite metaphors for the Christian life. Having been a marathon runner (slow and steady doesn't win the race, but it gets to the finish line!), I find the words of Hebrews 12:1-3 meaningful.

Therefore, since we also have such a large cloud of witnesses surrounding us, let us lay aside every weight and the sin that so easily ensnares us. Let us run with endurance the race that lies before us, keeping our eyes on Jesus, the source and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that lay before Him endured a cross and despised the shame and has sat down at the right hand of God’s throne.

When you approach the end of a marathon, there are often people gathered on the side of the road cheering you on and encouraging you to finish the race. Hebrews 12:1 refers back to chapter 11, the Hall of Faith, which describes how the heroes of the Old Testament walked by faith. They are the witnesses who surround us and encourage us to continue to walk in faith and dependence on Jesus Christ. They are not just cheerleaders, but those who have walked through the fires and in the deep darkness, depending on Almighty God and seeing that God at work.

• When I feel the weight of the guilt of my sins holding me back, when I wonder if my sins can ever really be washed away, I can listen to the witness of Abel who tells me, "The Father is pleased by a sacrifice of blood, especially that of the Son." 
• When I don't understand God's ways or his commands, I can listen for the voice of Noah telling me to trust and obey, even if it takes a long time. 
• When God's promises do not seem to be coming true, I hear the witness of Abraham who shouts for me to wait, to be patient, and that eventually God's promises will be fulfilled. 
• When I fear for my family, I can hear the testimony of the Patriarchs who speak of the faithfulness of God from generation to generation. 
• When you are faced with a task that is bigger than you, that is beyond your abilities, listen for Moses. God is bigger than your task. Obey God and he can empower you to face Pharaoah and deliver the people. Moses will remind you that we serve a Mighty God. Whatever the obstacles, whatever the challenges or disappointments or struggles of life, these witnesses remind us that the life of faith is a life of power, a life in which the glory of God is revealed. 

So press on. Don't give up. Run to the finish line. Lay aside the weight that hinders you - sin, bad habits, passions that compete with your love for Christ - and run with perseverance. Keep your eyes on the finish line; that blessed moment that awaits each of us when we cross that line and see Jesus face to face. That will be glory beyond words.

Run to Jesus. The race is not easy. It can be painful as you pursue Christ in this world. But Jesus is worth it. Every morning when you get up, renew your commitment to Christ and your desire to serve him. Day by day, week by week, year by year, pursue Christ. Run with perseverance until the day the race is over and you hear the Savior say, "Well done."

Father, strengthen me to run the race today, to seek Jesus and to serve him with my whole being. I long for that day when faith becomes sight and I see Jesus face to face.