Cloud of Witnesses

Hebrews 12:1 (New Living Translation)
Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a huge crowd of witnesses to the life of faith, let us strip off every weight that slows us down, especially the sin that so easily hinders our progress. And let us run with endurance the race that God has set before us.

Hebrews 12:1 (Contemporary English Version)
Such a large crowd of witnesses is all around us! So we must get rid of everything that slows us down, especially the sin that just won't let go. And we must be determined to run the race that is ahead of us.

Hebrews 12:1 (The Message)
Do you see what this means--all these pioneers who blazed the way, all these veterans cheering us on? It means we'd better get on with it. Strip down, start running--and never quit! No extra spiritual fat, no parasitic sins.


I just finished watching the final episode of The Amazing Race. I love the end when the final three teams each race to the finish line. All the competitors that were eliminated in previous episodes line the finish line and cheer on the finalists. It never fails to leave me in tears. I can't help but think of the comparison to Hebrews 12:1.

This year the comparison is even stronger, as we mourn Uncle Neill's passing. I envision him and all those dear loved ones who have gone on to heaven before us, lined up across the heavens, cheering us all on to finish well.

When we reach the finish mat, instead of Phil (the host of The Amazing Race) saying, "Welcome, you are the first team to arrive! You are the winners of the Amazing Race", Jesus will be at the finish mat, and He will say, "Well done, you upright and faithful servant! You have been faithful and trustworthy over a little; I will put you in charge of much. Enter into and share the joy which your master enjoys.." Matthew 25:21 (Amplified Bible)

Wow. What a day that will be!