Continuity

Hebrews 12:1-2  Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a huge crowd of witnesses to the life of faith, let us strip off every weight that slows us down, especially the sin that so easily trips us up. And let us run with endurance the race God has set before us. 2 We do this by keeping our eyes on Jesus, the champion who initiates and perfects our faith. Because of the joy awaiting him, he endured the cross, disregarding its shame. Now he is seated in the place of honor beside God’s throne.

This verse was mentioned in a novel I was reading a few days ago.  I love fiction, especially Christian fiction mysteries that combine fun reading with characters of faith and snippets of God's Word mixed in.  Stop one.

Next stop, Sunday morning.  I've mentioned before that one of my favorite old hymns is "The Old Rugged Cross."  No, only  is this a favorite of mine, it was of my Mom, and my Grandmother. 

How do these two events go together?  Well, in the book I was reading the main character's faith was handed down to him through his Grandfather and parents....and when he looked at living the Christian life, he felt as if he had a crowd of witnesses cheering him on.  These ancestors may have passed on to glory, but they were still pulling for him, still cheering him onto victory in Christ. 

The verse in Hebrews 12 starts off with, therefore.  So whenever we see that we have to look back to what was previously said.  And that brings us to the next stop.  Hebrews 11...this is called the heroes of faith chapter.  If you take time to read that chapter, you'll see the continuity of faith weaving it's way through the centuries.  Different people. different times, different circumstances, all acting in faith, running the race God sets before them.  Could this be our crowd of witnesses, those who went before us?  My Grandmother, singing hymns sharing her faith with her children.  My Mom, faithful, always looking to grow in her walk with God, and share this faith and love with her family...I'm not sure if any of this is making sense to anyone...but I see such a clear connection and line here, all leading to and from the Cross. 

Lord, You hold all things and people together.  You make the perfect connections to work out You incredible plan.  I can't wait to see it all woven together when I get to heaven.  This mess we call life that often seems jumbled and without sense will one day make a beautiful picture that glorifies You.  And it all begins with the connection to the Cross and passes down through generations of believers.  Lord, it's amazing to think that we have those believers who cheer us on to victory.  Our biggest supporter being You.  Help us to fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith that we may run this race with endurance.  Thank You that someone, whether family, friend or stranger shared this faith with us.  I am so grateful to be part of Your family.  In Jesus Name.  Amen. 

Remember, there are those who are cheering you on today!