Hebrews 12:1-2
Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us get rid of every burden and the sin that so easily ensnares us, and let us run with patient endurance the race that is laid out for us. Let us keep our eyes fixed on Jesus, who is the author of our faith and the one who brings it to its goal. In view of the joy set before him, he endured the cross, disregarding its shame, and has taken his seat at the right hand of God’s throne.
Dear Heavenly Father,
Human pride causes us to focus on ourselves and our efforts; sin easily ensnares us, and we rationalize that things are not that bad and think we can fix everything with our will. We can quickly and easily get focused on worldly things, causing us to become anxious and feel overburdened by all the stresses that come at us from our jobs, families, neighbors, the news, and whatever else might come our way.
But we are not alone in this race. You remind us we have a cloud of witnesses: biblical and historical saints whose events of their lives were recorded for us and saints who lived alongside us but now are home with you. The events of their lives remind us to run this life patiently and not get trapped by the things of the world but rather to focus on Jesus (especially when our sinful nature wants to direct our attention to anything other than Jesus.) Jesus taught repentance, and there we receive his forgiveness for every sin—even for the sins that take our eyes off him.
By faith, keep us focused on Your salvation plan through Your Son. Jesus became part of creation to suffer and die in our place, putting salvation’s plan in place; on the cross, he paid the penalty for our sins. Jesus authored our faith by sending us the Holy Spirit that we believe in your salvational plan for us.
Lord, we see so many people who struggle, ensnared in worldly things. We pray for opportunities to share our hope with them. Allow us to be part of their great cloud of witnesses so they will know and trust that salvation comes to them through faith. Amen.
Written through Pastor Roger Emmons
Direct your attention to Jesus when this world becomes hectic. There he reminds you what is essential, he has forgiven you, and your home in heaven is waiting for you. Through faith in Jesus, you are saved, and in the big picture, that is what truly matters.