Friday 8 October, 2021

12 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, 2 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. 3 Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.

A great cloud of witnesses – who – the saints listed in chapter 11.  Have you ever thought that there are saints of old in the heavens cheering you on as you choose Christ each day in every way.  People who have sacrificed deeply, even with their lives at times who now see you and are saying, John go for it, Betty great call, Anna amazing love expressed, Jerome what patience under fire!!  I love this picture of a crowd cheering – oh how I need that crowd at times, probably a whole lot more than I realise in fact!!!  And this gets me thinking – who do I cheer on now.  Or am I more a grumbler, a malcontent, finding it easier to see the bad than the good, the room for improvement than the improvement already achieved. Oh, how I need the attitude of this great cloud of witnesses!!!

Father help me to be an encourager – at all times in all places and spaces and so help people fulfill their destiny and get rid of their sin and tangles!!!

Written by Ps. Richard Botta