The Crowd In The Stands

“Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses…let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us.” Hebrews 12:1

The finish of the Olympic marathon is a fantastic spectacle. After running most of the 26.2 miles through the streets of the chosen city, the athletes enter the stadium for a final lap. As the leader bursts through the tunnel onto the track, the crowd in the stands goes wild with excitement, encouragement, and admiration. “Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses…let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us.”

The faithful from Hebrews 11 are not exhibited in a quiet, orderly museum but are plastered on rowdy bleacher walls. As we travel round the track, we’re reminded of their triumphs, troubles, successes, and struggles. Our faces reflect their faith. Their stories inspire our feet.

When you feel like giving up, remember those who’ve given all. “In your struggle against sin, you have not resisted to the point of shedding blood”(Heb. 12:4). When you feel like you can’t keep up, remember that it’s not about pace but about perseverance. “Those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength…They will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not faint”(Isaiah 40:31). You are not blazing a brand new trail. Many have gone before you, and others are coming behind you. A great cloud of witnesses applauds your every step—their lives strong proof of God’s power and loud evidence of His grace.

Just as the writer of Hebrews didn’t have time to cite details about Gideon, Samson, David, and Samuel(Heb. 11:32), this page doesn’t hold space to describe Martin Luther, William Tyndale, Amy Carmichael, Hudson Taylor, Oswald Chambers, Corrie ten Boom, Nate Saint, Billy Graham, your grandmother, and the guy at work who loves well and lives right. In print or in person they are rooting for you and urging you on. Look closely at the ones already across the line. Listen carefully to those in the next lane. Let God’s faithfulness motivate you to keep moving, and let the fans’ excitement increase your endurance.

Run. And keep running. The crowd is cheering like crazy, and the One clapping loudest has scars in His hands.