Are We There Yet
Compare the Christian journey to running a race. Just as children grow weary and impatient on long trips, believers often ask the same question in life’s struggles. The writer of Hebrews encourages us to press forward, surrounded by a great cloud of witnesses from Hebrews 11—ordinary people who endured by faith.
Running this spiritual race requires perseverance, discipline, and focus. We must lay aside sins and distractions that slow us down, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith. His endurance of the cross and His present victory at the right hand of God remind us that our suffering has purpose and limit.
The race of faith is not run alone. We are cheered on by the faithful who have gone before, inspired by their testimonies. This race is not a sprint but a marathon, demanding endurance through trials, sacrifices, and opposition. Yet, the promise of eternal joy—freedom from pain, tears, and death—fuels our perseverance.
Ultimately, our race is for Christ’s glory, not our own. When we finish, our crowns and rewards will be laid at His feet. The hope of heaven and the presence of Jesus Himself empower us to keep running, no matter the hardships.
Hebrews 12:1
“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,
Hebrews 12:2
Fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.
Hebrews 12:3