Author and Finisher of Our Faith
DAY 56 WRITTEN BY: MARIE BRUNER-
Hebrews 12:2
keeping our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of our faith. For the joy that lay before him, he endured the cross, despising the shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.
-
Today’s passage follows a verse that reminds us that life is a race of perseverance; not a short jog – a marathon. The sports analogy was relevant to the Jewish believers in the first century who were familiar with running competitions as much as it is to us today. Due to persecution, they were tempted to give up and return to familiar Judaism, but the writer of Hebrews encourages them to endure.
Chapter 11 of Hebrews was a summary of Jewish history to remind the readers of those who had lived by faith. The writer of Hebrews segues into practical application in an atmosphere of intense persecution. Not only does He use the athletic metaphor of racing, but he also reminds them of the One who endured humiliation and torture yet remained faithful until His mission was complete.
When Jesus cried out, “It is finished,” He was crossing the finish line of His earthly race. He was then able to claim His prize – a seat at the right hand of God the Father. His race had been arduous, but He faithfully walked in obedience to God’s will and plan for His life.
The writer of Hebrews reminds us that we, too, are called to obedience despite adversity. Our race will not be easy despite any gospels that preach otherwise. The only way to win the race is to stay focused…not on the pain, not on the struggle, not on the trials (because there will be plenty), but on Jesus Himself – the One who initiated our faith and sanctifies us.
That’s the “joy that lays before us” – Jesus understood that His suffering would produce redemption and that brought Him joy in the struggle. If we understand that our perseverance results in a deeper and more intimate relationship with God, then we also can be joyful in adversity. We can see the finish line and the reward at the end of our race – more of Him and His presence, both now and eternally.
-
Father, I want to run this race well. Help me have faith in You, trusting that you are always working for my good and Your glory. May I trust in You and focus on You so intently that I am not sidetracked by sin. I trust You, who initiated my faith, to complete the work that You began because You are faithful.
