Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders us and the sin that so easily entangles us and let us run with perseverance the race that is marked out for us. Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of the faith, who for the joy set before Him, endured the cross, scorning its shame and sat down at the right hand throne of God.
Hebrews 12:1-2
The "Faith Hall of Fame" or "Roll Call for Heroes of the Faith" is what some people call Hebrews 11. The chapter repetitively refers to those who walked with God by faith resulting in great accomplishment and true blessing. In chapter 12, the author (some believe to be the Apostle Paul) writes to encourage the faith and challenge the perseverance of some of the believers who were wavering. Before he exhorted them to focus on the person and passion of Jesus and run with endurance, he reminds them that they have a cloud of witnesses. This is a reference to the faithful who have gone before and are now watching over us as we live.
Whenever I think on this passage, I can't help but consider a stadium full of witnesses. We are surrounded by a cloud of witnesses (like an Olympic Stadium). I think about all the saints watching from the sky box above and I consider both the Biblical saints and the saints I have known who have gone on to be with the Lord. As I consider their legacy of faith, I am challenged to run my best and carry the baton faithfully. I also think about the many witnesses in the stands who should be on the field, but instead are in the stands watching others run the race of faith. I pray that more and more faithful servants will step forward to be a part of the team and join the effort in fulfilling the mission of Christ. However, when I reflect on this passage, I think mostly about the Lord Jesus who is seated at the right hand of God and how they witness our faith in action. This serves as a great motivation: to know that God the Father and Son are watching our every move, but also as encouragement to know that they are rooting for us every faithful step of the way.
This is not a sprint! The race of life in Christ is a Marathon which requires persistence in faithful training and endurance in execution. Pray with me for a team of servants who are ready to enter into training (discipleship) and willing to serve for the long haul, all the while running a challenging course. I believe that we are preparing for an incredible race ahead!
Just one last comment, the Heroes of the Faith mentioned in Hebrews 11 were not the ones passively watching the race, but actively participating in the race. Ready for a run?
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