“Therefore since we are surrounded… let us also lay aside… let us run… looking to Jesus the founder and perfecter of our faith…” – Hebrews 12:1-2                                     

Scripture reading: Hebrews 11:30-12:2

In the previous chapters, the Hebrew believers had been encouraged to see the superiority of Christ. The entire message of the Old Testament had been a preparation for the coming of Christ. Now at the conclusion of this letter/sermon these same believers are called to a living and lively faith. As 11:6 teaches, without faith it is impossible to please God.  Faith is as Martin Luther once wrote “…a living daring confidence in God’s grace, so sure and certain that a man could stake his life on it a thousand times”. 

In faith, God’s people are to fix their eyes on Jesus as the object of faith and salvation.  This means that while the cloud of Old Testament witnesses may inspire us, it is Jesus, both in His person and work, Who is to both encourage and enable us as we look to our Fatherland. We must rest and rely on His perfect obedience as if it were our own. By the merits of Christ Jesus, we run the race seeking the heavenly Jerusalem.  

Are you facing a particular temptation? Look to Jesus! Are you distraught! Look to Jesus! Is doubt, complacency, self-absorption your trouble? Look to Jesus!

Suggestions for prayer

Ask our heavenly Father for grace to keep your eyes fixed on Jesus.

Rev. Peter Vellenga is presently serving as itinerant preacher waiting upon Lord for continued assignment.