Begin the Ending

 

“Wherefore, seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight and the sin that doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us, looking unto Jesus, the Author, and Finisher of our faith . . .” (Hebrews 12:1–2)

Today you begin the ending of another New Year. You make resolutions with the sincerest heart, but some of your heartfelt and well-thought-out plans are short-lived. Often, those well-intended resolutions are not honored because of lost focus. Focus is intentional, a concentrated and fixed sight. Focus is vital in keeping us on track, which brings us to the passage's subject: a race. Whether athletically inclined or not, everyone alive is a participant in the race of life. But the writer of Hebrews focuses on believers, God’s children, running in this unique race. 

Many track runners wear skimpy, lightweight, well-fitted clothing and shoes, and sometimes headgear, so the wind flows freely over them as they run—no resistance. A healthy diet, exercise, rest, and daily training are crucial for physical fitness to run a race, but this passage does not mention any of these. Instead, he instructs believers to “lay aside every weight.” We are to cast off everything that might constrict or resist our way through life: concerns, wrong attitudes, unforgiveness—anything that would hinder success in our lifelong race. This removal includes “the sin that so easily besets us,” the one “something” (or someone) that triggers you to think, say, or do that which would not happen under normal circumstances. Unless you cast off that besetting sin, it will trip you up every time.

Once you have removed all hindrances, run with perseverance. Keep your eyes—your focus—on the Author and Finisher of your faith; no hesitation, no looking back, or you will lose stride, or worse, stumble. Jesus is with you from the beginning of your faith-run and will be there as you cross the finish line. Be resolute every day to run your race well; there is a host of witnesses who have gone on before you, watching and cheering you on to victory.