Supporting Crowds

“Therefore, since we are surrounded
by such a great cloud of witnesses ..
let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us.”

(Hebrews 12:1)

Reflection:
The writer has been referring to some of ‘the saints’ who have preceded us, whose names and lives are mentioned in Scripture. With these are all the others who, like Paul, could say,

“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith” (2 Timothy 4:7)

This ‘great cloud’ are witnesses in two ways. Firstly they have themselves witnessed to the glory and love of God. Secondly they look on to watch and encourage us, and others, as we undertake our own journey with the Lord. They are there to encourage and support us at all times. If we fall they urge us to get up and ‘have another go at life with God.’ As we do well in any area they acknowledge the victory and encourage us to keep going.

Any athlete will acknowledge the difference that a supportive crowd can make to them, both when they are struggling and when they are playing well. We are not alone in our own race, we are surrounded by supporters who themselves know and understand the difficulties that we face – and also the difference that the Lord makes as He journeys with us.

Response:
‘Wave to the crowd’ – watch the Lord – persevere

Prayer:

Lord God, thank You for the love and faithfulness of all the saints who have gone before me, and for the wonderful difference that You made in their lives. Please help me in the same way to keep going with You. Amen.

———————