Hebrews 12:1,2

Hebrews 12:1,2 Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us, Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God. Can you imagine being on the field for competition in a great stadium? And all of the people in the stands are cheering for you because they have had their time on the field just before you. They remember the nervousness feeling in their stomachs – the same feeling of anticipation in yours. You hear them yelling words of encouragement as you prepare for your race. They have run their race and have done well. Now it is your turn. These cheering people in the stands are not just fans, they were runners just like you. They ran their race and they know what you are facing. As you come to the starting line, you look up at their faces and you feel their encouragement. They loved running their race, but their time is over. Now it is your turn. And so it is with us. My dad is up in the stands cheering for me. He has finished and he is cheering me on in my race. My mom is almost to the finish line and she has run her race very well. I know because I have been watching her. And I am just behind her finishing my race. And as I look back, you are just beginning your race. There are curves and hurdles in your race. Be careful. Don’t stumble or run into another runner. Think carefully and plan your race because it is a long one. Don’t take off too fast and use up all of your energy. Save some of it for when you get tired half-way through the race. You will need to have reserves. But when you get tired and you think you can’t make it, look up in those stands and listen to everyone cheering you on. You can do it because there are many who have gone before you who have done it, and you can do it too. And don’t give up because there is one more very important observer up there in the stands. Look for Jesus up there. He will be looking down to see you run your race. He will be smiling and nodding his head in approval as you line up. His nod and smile are saying, “You can do it; don’t be afraid, I will be here for you.” And He will.