On Wednesday morning as I was having my quiet time in the living room, Ben and Ellie were seated on the couch next to me. I've become accustomed to having one or more children in the room with me during my quiet time. Early on, I had debated about refusing to allow them in the room so as not to be distracted but then I decide that what better way for them to learn than to observe first hand what having a quiet time was like, and it helps keep me accountable because they expect me to have one.
All of the above is just setting the stage and was not on my mind Wednesday morning. I was going over once of the Scripture passages I am trying to memorize, Hebrews 12:1-8. The first verse reads,
"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."
This verse follows after chapter 11, which is the faith chapter, including the Faith Hall of Fame. So in the context, the great cloud of witnesses is referring to those of the faith who have proceeded us. However, as I sat there repeating the verses, it occurred to me that I also had a different "cloud of witnesses" sitting right there beside me. And how much stronger of a motivation that is to me to "run with perseverance the race marked out for" me, even than those pillars of faith who have gone before me but are no longer in this world.
Who is your "cloud of witnesses" and how are you running your race?
3 comments:
Wow - that's challenging! I've never looked at it that way, but you are so right. Thanks for sharing.
Well said, Joel. It is definitely motivating to live out our faith in front of those little ones who watch EVERYTHING we do.
Your children are fortunate!
Mom
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