Keeping our Eyes on Jesus

Hebrews 12: 1-3

“Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, 2 fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. 3 Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.”

The writer of Hebrews wrote that the Christian life is liable to be entangled in temptations and sin.  What is the Christian to do?  

First, we are to surround ourselves with people who are “witnesses” to the Christian life.  These are people who have experience; people who know things and have been through things.  We are to rely on such people when the going gets rough.  

Second, we are to fix our eyes on Jesus; His words, His actions, His teachings..  He is our example of how to live a Godly life in the midst of temptation, opposition, persecution and suffering.  

With our “witnesses” beside us and Jesus fixed in our hearts, we will never grow weary.  We will never lose heart.  

May the love of Christ be with you

Rev. Eric Lanier (Retired)