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 12:2]
Encouragement
Hebrews can be a tough letter to get into, but once you get the hang of it, it’s very rewarding. The letter is really all about encouragement.
We don’t know the author. Because of the strong Old Testament content and other clues, we can guess Hebrews was written to Jewish converts to Christianity, perhaps in Italy, who had converted to Christianity through first-generation preaching. Now they were facing hostility and mild persecution (short of death), and the author feared they might give up their Christian faith.
Thus the letter is full of encouragement (and a few harsh warnings) to the people; they must keep looking to the risen Christ to ground their faith, and to keep from ever giving up. Their suffering was temporary but Christ is eternal—and he is always there!
Heroes of the Faith
The famous chapter 11, which recounts heroes of the faith in the past, is a “cloud of witnesses” to struggling believers. Many of those heroes suffered and some were even killed, but they had faith to persevere. They witness to the truth and power of God known now through Christ.
The author of Hebrews goes on to liken Christian faith to a race that calls for personal sacrifice and especially perseverance. We gain perseverance by looking to Christ, who endured so much for our salvation and now is in a position of heavenly power (“the right hand of God”) to help us.
Focusing on Jesus
How can we focus on Jesus in our own lives? I don’t know about you, but daily busyness and stressful life-problems are two things that distract me from focusing upon Jesus.
I would suggest that you have something in your daily life that helps you focus upon Jesus. Many people enjoy reading daily devotional guides. I have a little prayer book that I like, which I keep handy during the day. Sometimes I put a small cross in my pocket, or prayer beads, that remind me of Jesus while I’m running around busy during the day. Then, I stop and say a prayer of thanks and my desire for grace.
Your Turn
Think of something that works for you, something that’s personally meaningful and adds a happy reminder of Jesus throughout your day and fortifies you for your own “race” of faith. If you have a favorite, share it here.
Dr. Paul Stroble
Paul blogs at paulstroble.wordpress.com and paulstroble.blogspot.com. You can find his many books about faith and the Bible at amazon.com.
A passionate reader, I began writing as a young girl. After graduating from college, I became a teacher. Over the course of my career, I taught high schoolers, college undergraduates, and public school teachers how to write personal narratives, expository and persuasive essays, as well as poetry and short fiction. I continued to write: publishing professional articles, two textbooks, short stories, and poetry. In 2013, I won first place in Romantic Suspense in the ACFW Genesis Contest.
Thanks, Paul, and hello Suzanne! Apart from the gospels, I have found that a daily reading of selections from the works of Dietrich Bonhoeffer in “I Want to Live These Days with You: A Year of Daily Devotions,” is most helpful in keeping my eye on Jesus. Dare I say it? I find it more challenging and meaningful than the Gospels themselves.
Hi Arne, What surprises the internet turns up! I’m not familiar with the book you mention, but I plan to find it. Thanks for your reply.