Run

“Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses [who by faith have testified to the truth of God’s absolute faithfulness], stripping off every unnecessary weight and the sin which so easily and cleverly entangles us, let us run with endurance and active persistence the race that is set before us, [looking away from all that will distract us and] focusing our eyes on Jesus, who is the Author and Perfecter of faith [the first incentive for our belief and the One who brings our faith to maturity], who for the joy [of accomplishing the goal] set before Him endured the cross, disregarding the shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God [revealing His deity, His authority, and the completion of His work]. Just consider and meditate on Him who endured from sinners such bitter hostility against Himself [consider it all in comparison with your trials], so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.”
‭‭Hebrews‬ ‭12‬:‭1‬-‭3‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Today, I need this. I cling to this truth today. I had a migraine that scared me very badly last night. I’m calling the doctor this morning. In the pain, I got scared. I was so fearful. I panicked.

Here’s the truth I need to remember today. This Bible I hold in my hand, the community I am involved with, my family..they testify to the truth of God’s absolute faithfulness. Their lives shout God’s love. The Bible teaches me every day.

Was God with me in the hospital? Yes. Will he be with me in whatever the next steps? Yes. I’m so busy trying to come up with solutions in my own mind, I forget to run. I’m like a statue and just waiting for the next shoe to drop.

Ahhh. This is hard. Lay aside every hindrance. Sin. I realize how much my work environment tempts me to be frustrated and upset. Adds to my tunnel vision.

In these verses, God asks me to keep my eyes on him. Keep laying aside. Run with endurance AND active persistence. This reminds me of my dog when she wants anything from me. She sits in front of me and waits for me to figure it out. She will leave to get a toy, but she is back. My walk is sitting at the feet of Rabbi Jesus and looking at him. Waiting.

Waiting for him to answer. Looking to him for a joy that I cannot manufacture on my own. I am incapable of joy that i try create. Just as my dog is confident that i will answer, I am confident God will answer.

Jesus sat down at the right hand of the Father. He completed. Today I remember this as I am weary. I am tired. Let us not give up. Let us keep our eyes fixed on Jesus.

Broken hallelujah.