A WORD IN PASSING - September 2020

'Therefore, since we are sorrounded by such a great cloud of witnessess, 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.

Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, ...' Hebrews 12:1-2

Patience and perseverance are often the hardest part in any test of endurance. We like everything to happen in our own time and in our way. Often we can be impatient with others, with ourselves - even with God! But we need to beware, for on the other-hand, patience can end up becoming a subtle slide into 'opting-out'.

This is certainly not what the writer of Hebrews calls for. He warns us that the race of faith and trust is long and not easy. So his encouraging call to us is,

         'Don't give up. Run it all the way. Keep your eyes on the goal. Remember, the race isn't over until you 

      cross the finishing line!'

And think, he says, of your Christian forebears who have run the race before you. There they stand at the finishing line, cheering you on. And think of what an encouragment they are and how well qualified they are to inspire you, for in their victory they bear witness to the faithfulness of God who sustained them (and who will sustain you) each step of the way.  

As we press on, so they look down upon us and cheer us on to gain the prize; the crown of life, the crown imperishable that is already theirs. The crown that awaits us because of Jesus who ran the race before us. He who endured the cross, scorning its shame, and who is seated at the right hand of the Father waiting to receive those for whom He has made it possible to run the race to victory.

Keep your eyes on Him. Keep your ears open. Keep on running, 'For He who called you is faithful' 1 Thess 5:24

                                                                                                                               Graham Pulham

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