Monday
Hebrews 12:1-2 (Part 1)
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, 2 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.
The author of Hebrews has just reminded the readers of many who have gone before that lived by faith and in so doing expanded the work of God’s work in the world and set them up to continue what God is doing. We can be en-couraged by remembering the faithfulness of those trailblazers and with that courage, step into a future by faith and anticipation that God will continue his work in and through us.
- Who is someone you remember who lived by faith? In what way have you been encouraged and empowered by their witness?
- What might they have laid aside in order to live into their faith?
- What commitments do you share with them as co-laborers with Christ?
Gracious God, it is humbling to acknowledge that you have been at work long before we showed up and you will continue long after we are gone. Give us eyes to see your work in and through those who have gone before us and develop your enduring character in us that we might leave a legacy that blesses and encourages the generations after us. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Tuesday
Hebrews 12:1-2 (Part 2)
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, 2 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.
Sometimes our following Jesus requires us to lay aside the weight of things that are not ours to bear or the sin that drags us down. At the moment it feels so painful, perhaps, but as we move through the feelings of grief, we come to experience a freedom and wholeness that opens up the journey of faith in new ways.
- Is there weight or sin that keeps you from living in freedom and wholeness?
- How does bearing that weight or sin feel?
- What would it feel like to leave it by the side of the road?
Gracious God, you know us and you look on us with love and compassion. We confess that we carry weight and sin that you have invited us to offload, but we somehow continue to hold onto as a part of our identity. Give us the grace and courage to let go of the things that bog us down and move us toward the freedom and wholeness that you desire for all of us. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Wednesday
Hebrews 12:1-2 (Part 3)
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, 2 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.
We continue to make our way through this passage – there is so much to absorb. After laying aside the unnecessary weight we carry, we are able to run the race set before us with perseverance. There is an invitation to let go so we can move forward. Perseverance is mentioned by the author because the race requires it. Like anything we do that matters, running requires us to continue even when it seems difficult.
- When have you needed perseverance in your journey?
- How does joy and perseverance co-exist in your life?
- How would you describe the race set before you?
Gracious God, thank you for this invitation to a life of meaning and fulfillment. As we continue to relinquish the weight and make our way along the path you have for us, give us the perseverance to stay in the race and the discernment to follow you in the way you would have us run. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Thursday
Hebrews 12:1-2 (Part 4)
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, 2 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.
It is because of Jesus that we can release the weight and sin that trips us up and stay in the race throughout our lives. Like our ancestors, we may not see hope fulfilled, but we can rest knowing that the race we are on is worth it, initiated by Jesus and completed in Jesus. Following Jesus, we may experience suffering and the shame of being misunderstood, but we know with joy that we are running the race by faith in the company of others and of Jesus.
- As you ponder the race set before you, where do you picture Jesus?
- What do you hear him saying to you as the pioneer and perfecter of your faith?
- What do you need to ask him for in the midst of the race you are running?
Gracious God, thank you for the hope that fills us and helps us to run with perseverance the race you have set before us as your followers. Help us to remember that we do not run alone, but with you and with your people across the generations. Give us the joy that compelled Jesus to endure suffering and shame so that he might make a way for us back to you. In His name, Amen.
Friday
Hebrews 12:1-2 (Part 5)
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, 2 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.
The life of a Christ follower is a process of letting go of the things that bind us so that we might hold on to Jesus, the one that matters. We need the mercies that are new every morning to continue the race and we are in good company – those behind us and those before us. We are all following Jesus and empowered by the Holy Spirit to run our race faithfully and joyfully.
- What keeps you running the race?
- What causes you to falter?
- Who is in your company, encouraging you and receiving courage from you?
Gracious God, thank you for the many ways you remind us that you are at work, in, through, and among your people, in the past, present and future. Help us to let go of the weight and sin that keeps us from running with joy and perseverance. Help us to lean into your presence and trust in your leading in our lives. Help us to focus on the race set before us and not be distracted by the way you are leading others. May you be glorified in our faith expressed in our obedience to you. In Jesus’ name, Amen.