Hebrews 12:1–3 1 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. 2 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. 3 Consider him who endured such opposition from sinful men, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.

The previous chapter lists some of those who are a part of that cloud of witnesses: Abel, Enoch, Noah, Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, Moses, and the list goes on. The apostles of the New Testament are also part of that cloud…Peter, Paul, Andrew, Philip. And there are countless others down through the ages who have been faithful witnesses to our Lord who are a part of that great cloud of witnesses: Augustine, Luther, Walther. Each of them makes up one little drop in that cloud. And so do all of the faithful. Each of you are also a drop in that great cloud of witnesses.

The point of it being mentioned here is to remind you that you have people of the past and present whose exemplary Christian lives encourage you to press on. They do that by pointing you to Jesus, and it is a wonderful thing to see others live the life of faith. But the real incentive and power to run the race comes from Jesus. Having loved us, he loved us to the end.

You have seen that love demonstrated on the cross. The love of God found its ultimate expression in the suffering, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. God carried out His plan to save mankind by taking the sins of the world and placing them on His sinless Son. Jesus made full payment for those sins through His death. It was for your sake that He was willing to suffer the shame and agony of the cross. And God has promised that all who believe that Jesus is their Savior will receive the benefit of His payment. Through repentance and faith, you are assured that forgiveness is yours. God claims you as His child.

Let us fix our eyes on Jesus. You do this when you listen His Word, when you come to his Supper, when you remember that He suffered, died and rose again for you, when you remember your Baptism. Eternal life with Him awaits you, just as He promised. But the road is rocky and rough, just as the path to Calvary was a difficult one. Just remember the one who endured the cross for you is with you every step of the way. Living with your eyes fixed on Jesus, you will someday see Him at the right hand of God and join Him in glory forever.

Consider him who endured such opposition from sinful men, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.