So Great a Cloud of Witnesses

Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God. (Hebrews 12:1–2 ESV).

 

I must confess that the first verse of our reading today has been a great encouragement to me in recent years. Without detailing the health challenges Mary and I have faced over the last seven years, let me say there have been more than one occasion when we had wistful conversations about heaven, I suppose that is a natural occurrence for many people who reach our age, having various medical challenges, and seeing many of our relatives, friends, and others die while we remain. It can be a bit disorienting at times.

 

One conversation in particular drew this into sharp focus some years ago while I was at physical therapy for a session Mary happened to be doing. It is a small office and Mary and I have been there many times over the years, so, the staff know us. As Mary was being tended to, I was drawn into a conversation with one of the therapists with a remark about how important the therapy was in that it would add years to our lives. I simply said, “Well, the alternative is not so bad. We’ve got as many folks on that side as we do on this one. And it is heaven after all.” He was very serious, and said, “But just think of all the things that you would miss seeing and doing if you weren’t here.” I replied by quoting the first verse of our reading and adding, “I won’t miss a thing. I’ll be in that great cloud of witnesses cheering my family and friends along in their race.” Then, he said, “But they would miss seeing you watch them.”

 

Let that sink in for a bit. It made me realize the conundrum of life and death for the believer. It is no wonder that the Apostle Paul said, “For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain.” (Philippians 1:21 ESV). As we have seen in a previous devotional, it is appointed “once for all men to die” (Hebrews 9:27). God has scheduled that moment; it will not be early, and it will not be late… it will be on time. Until then, I get to live for Christ. A big part of that is being the model and encourager to others to follow Him. Jesus really is GREATER!