Go Over the Story Again
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Hebrews 12:1-3 (MSG)
Do you see what this means—all the pioneers who blazed the way, all these veterans cheering us on? It means we’d better get on with it. Strip down, start running—and never quit! No extra spiritual fat, no parasitic sins. Keep your eyes on Jesus, who both began and finished this race we’re in. Study how he did it. Because he never lost sight of where he was headed—that exhilarating finish in and with God—he could put up with anything along the way: cross, shame, whatever. And now he’s there, in the place of honor, right alongside God. When you find yourselves flagging in your faith, go over that story again, item by item, that long litany of hostility he plowed through. That will shoot adrenaline into your souls!
This is just what I needed this morning! No spiritual fat! Just the basics! Look to Jesus and compare any hardships in your life. Do they really measure up? Have you ever read a medical account of crucifixion? It’s horrific. I couldn’t even finish reading it! And some people thought the scene in The Passion of the Christ where Jesus was beaten by the Romans was too gory and graphic. But I still remember the first time I watched it: I was transfixed. As much as I wanted to turn away and hide my eyes, I couldn’t.
I remember when the movie ended and the lights began to come up that the group of three in front of us who had fooled around and were rather loud and annoying as the movie began, were speechless and unable to get up from their seats. One of them was sobbing, quietly, head in her hands. I was numb. No one was chatting. There was a somber, silent procession out of the theater.
What else could be said except Christ crucified? How can the hardships I view as monumental obstacles in my life be compared to what he endured? He never lost sight of his goal. His message never changed. He never promised it would be easy – just worth it! And he proved that he really meant it on a hilltop 2000 years ago.
I hope today you find your faith renewed and refreshed as you remember the reward that awaits you in heaven. And that you call upon the example set by Jesus, our Precious Lord and Savior.
Mary
