Wherefore, seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us. Hebrews 12:1
A brutal murder occurred a number of years ago in a gravel pit in Penobsquis, only a couple of kilometers from the Sussex Gospel Hall. A man was beaten to death. Within a couple of days, two suspects were arrested in Calais, Maine, and returned to New Brunswick to face trial. One thing became apparent as the trial proceeded: the police had gathered large numbers of witnesses. Although nobody had seen the crime committed, there were those who could testify that the two suspects were seen leaving a Moncton bar with the victim. Other witnesses saw the three together in a car not far from the murder site. Yet other witnesses saw the suspects disposing of bloody clothing. Many police witnesses testified about their investigation findings and their test results. After a week of many witnesses giving their testimony, the only defense left for the two suspects was to accuse each other of the killing. The jury convicted them both. The cloud of witnesses proved the case against them. Just as the cloud of witnesses described and alluded to in Hebrews 11 proves the case for faith and faithfulness.
One or two witnesses at a trial can disagree with each other on minor details, and sometimes even on major details. Contradictory evidence is often used by crafty lawyers to confuse a jury and to cast doubts on a case. But the witnesses who presented their evidence in Hebrews 11 did not contradict each other. Their evidence is clear and corroborating. They make the case strongly for faith and faithfulness. That is why our text today can urge believers to patiently endure the race that God has placed us in. If the Old Testament faithful counted their trials worthwhile, how much more should we? In light of the full revelation of Scripture, which the Old Testament faithful did not have, we can be confident as we exercise our own faith in diligent service for our Saviour.
God has set before us a race to run. He has also presented the evidence of those who have already run the race. The verdict: the prize is well worth the pursuing. – Jim MacIntosh