Witnesses

Each week as I create the bulletin for my church, I review the texts and think about them so I can create a front cover that will reflect the focus of that week's lessons.  Sometimes, a single word jumps out at me, while other times, it is a turn of phrase that catches my attention.  (I am not sure it is always the theme that the pastor or the rest of the congregation thinks it should be, but I try!)

This has been an arduous month for me, for a variety of reasons, and this week a phrase really hit home.  In Hebrews 12:1-2 we read:

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, 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.  (NIV)