Hebrews 12:1-2 "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. Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God."

Hebrews 12 comes on the heels (not surprisingly) of Hebrews 11, the great hall of faith chapter. Therefore, in light of the testimony of such a great cloud of witnesses (think Hebrews 11 and the faithfulness of God), we can be sure of things hoped for and certain of things we do not see. Hebrews was written to a group of people who were on the fence between Judaism and Christianity. They liked Jesus, liked the body of Christ, but were scared and hesitant to leave behind their heritage, not fully understanding that Jesus was the fulfillment of their faith. The writer of Hebrews is telling them to let go. Their heritage of faith (Hebrews 11) has pointed them to this, and now it is time to pursue Christ by...

Throwing off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles...what are the things in your life that are keeping you from abundant life in Christ? This is not a trick question. Name them. If you are being honest, you know them easily. Name them. Confess them to God and find a brother or sister in Christ to walk life with you, keeping you accountable and celebrating growth in your life.

Run with perseverance the race marked out for us...God is trying to get you to a point B. You started at point A, and he is taking you to the location he has destined. IF YOU ARE LUCKY, this road will NOT be easy. Suffering in life, times of wilderness and desert are invitations to hold tightly to the hand of God. There is no greater moment in your life to run with perseverance, or be transformed in your faith, than when times are tough. We do not rejoice in the sufferings themselves, but in our God who can get us through. Run your race. I know that for many of us, we are going through tough situations, tough decisions and real pain. I am in no way belittling these experiences, just merely calling you to follow hard after the one who is able to save.

Let us fix our eyes on Jesus...The rest of the verse describes his greatness and worthiness, but he must be our gaze. When he is not our vision, our lives are dictated by lesser things. CS Lewis calls this "lovers less wild." Our eyes must be on Jesus, because he is our standard. Our eyes must be on Jesus, because there is no one else worthy to be followed. Our eyes must be on  Jesus because only through him, will our lives have value.

Our circumstances might be different than the 1st century Jews, but our call is the same. This week in our homes, in our schools, in our places of business, may we pursue Christ above all else.

Brian Tryhus
FBC Family Pastor