Willing Faith
Jesus, the Founder and Perfecter of Our Faith
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. Consider him who endured from sinners such hostility against himself, so that you may not grow weary or fainthearted.
Hebrews 12:1-3 ESV
Believers run the race set before – the life path God sovereignly chose for us. It’s a life of faith with Jesus as our goal. He is the one who created and completed our faith. He endured the physical pain of the cross, but even more importantly, He withstood the shame of carrying our sins and the Father’s turning away from Him.
Jesus did all this willingly for the joy of completing the Father’s will. He found joy in saving us and He is now exalted at the right hand of God.
We are called to lay aside our sin and willingly endure the trials and pains of this life so that we too can find joy in glorifying God and doing the will of the Father.
Hebrews chapter 11 tells us of the many faithful followers – Old Testament saints looking forward to the coming Messiah and New Testament martyrs who so willingly gave their lives for Jesus Christ and the sake of the Gospel. They are a great encouragement for us to keep on running the race and aim for the prize of the high calling of Jesus Christ.
Lord find me faithful.
God bless you and your family during this 2020 Advent season. Join us Sunday mornings at 9:30 am for worship and God’s Word focused on Jesus Christ.
Categories: Advent, Blog, Holidays
