Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight and the sin that clings so closely, and let us run with perseverance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus the pioneer and perfecter of our faith, who for the sake of the joy that was set before him endured the cross, disregarding its shame, and has taken his seat at the right hand of the throne of God. ~ Hebrews 12:1-2
Prior to this passage, the writer of Hebrews spends a little time mentioning many of the greats that came before Jesus: those who showed exemplar faith.
But none of them compare to the one who came before us and endured the cross.
Do you ever think about who came before you? Who are the witnesses to the faith that you hold dear?
Who taught you your faith? Who watered it and fed it so it could flourish?
Who did you turn to - or do you turn to - when it is shaken?
Who is it that points you to the perfecter of our faith, Jesus?
Each Sunday in our prayers of intercession we give thanks to those who came before us: remembering them and knowing that God remembers them as well.
And finally, who is it that you are a witness to? Who will remember you as one who guided their faith on this journey?
God of time and space...God of all that is seen and unseen...thank you for those you have sent before me to pave the path of faith. Help me to live a life of faith worthy of guiding others. Amen