Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, 2 looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God. 3 Consider him who endured from sinners such hostility against himself, so that you may not grow weary or fainthearted.
Hebrews 12:1-4 (ESV)
The Olympics
The Summer Olympics just finished in Tokyo and serve as a perfect backdrop for verse 1 which we’ll cover today. The great cloud of witnesses refers back to chapter 11 (including those who are not in chapter 11) who are the fans in the stands at the Olympics. They are a special kind of fan. As former contenders, they actually have already competed and completed their race. They are now cheering us (and the Jews of the time) on.
Running 101
What’s the simplest thing to do to help you run faster and longer? Get rid of the things that are not essential for running. Got a backpack full of entitlements? Ditch it. A nice pair of dress shoes? Lose ‘em. Big, fancy watch? Nope. Keys to the car you love? Gone. Only need a lightweight shirt, shorts and good shoes; maybe a headband. Another picture that comes to mind is a hot air balloon race where the balloon won’t lift off the ground because the operator has too much stuff in the basket with them.
What is holding you down?
We’re running the spiritual race to cross the finish line to Heaven. What is the spiritual “backpack” that you are carrying, what “dress shoes”, “car keys” are weighing you down? Is it the love of money or the pride of life? Your job or business? Possessions? What is it that keeps you from even running the race? If you’re in the race, what’s keeping you from running (vs. walking)? Is there something, some besetting sin, that is vying for your attention trying to knock you out? Call it for what it is. Get rid of it. If it’s sin, confess and repent.
It’s a marathon, not a sprint
The author is reminding his readers that this race is not a sprint, it’s an endurance race, a marathon. We need to hold onto God’s promises and keep trusting in Him. If we doubt, if we lose heart, seek Him and trust Him. He is always near. Read and meditate on His Word. Pray. Fellowship. Share the good news with others. Give sacrificially. Love others. Phillipians 1:6. John McArthur provides some additional thoughts on this race.
