Verse: Hebrews 12:1-3
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, 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. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.
Devotion
This verse stirs up such emotions and visuals. Have you ever noticed, if you participate in sports, that you can push yourself harder if you have people there for you, watching and cheering you on?
Sometimes it may be easy to forget about the ones who are watching us as we run our race. A great cloud of witnesses, none of whom saw the thing that God had promised them in their lifetime. A great many people, none of whom were perfect, in fact, the very same people mentioned in the previous chapter have also had their flaws and missteps laid out for us in scripture. But yet, they are remembered for their faith. Human, broken, messed up, and just like us.
So we are to remember these witnesses, so that we can be encouraged to run the race. But our eyes are still to be set on Jesus. Who ran the race perfectly. For the joy set before him. What was the joy that was set before him? The work that he completed on the cross. The work of reconciliation, the thing that allowed us to have free access to God. To no longer be separated from God by a temple curtain, or a blood sacrifice because of our sin. The freedom he has given us to no longer be slaves to sin. That was the joy set before him. So let us try to set our eyes on Him, on the fact that he has filled in all the gaps and met us in our brokenness. He has smoothed out all of our imperfections before God.
So whatever it might be that is currently wearing you down…
Your mundane daily routine…
Trying to be patient and kind while firm with your kids, or students…
Having patience with a particularly difficult personality in your life…
Your own repeated failings, when you really are trying so hard to get it right…
The uncertainty in the world…
A financial situation…
Remember that you are being cheered on, by those who have come before, who have all fallen short, but still are remembered for their faith. Let’s keep our eyes on Jesus, who has covered us with his grace. Let’s take a deep breath and keep going. Let’s ask for the strength.
Prayer
Jesus, we so often lose our focus and turn our eyes to the churning waves around us. Help us to look up and see you there, holding your hand out to us. Please forgive us for where we have failed, and give us the strength to keep going. Thank you for the new mercies that you offer to us for each day, and the provisions to make it through. We may be weary, but with our eyes on you, we will not lose heart. Amen.
Author: Emily Costa
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