Which hope we have as an anchor of the soul, both sure and steadfast, and which entereth into that within the veil, whither the Forerunner is for us entered, even Jesus, made an high priest for ever after the order of Melchisedec. Hebrews 6:19-20
What is a forerunner? In olden days, ships approaching their destination would often encounter the most dangerous and turbulent water of the entire voyage just outside the harbour. Rocks, reefs, and high waves would create a peril that would threaten their safe arrival. Such ships would send out a forerunner: a small boat manned by a brave and skilful sailor, who would make his way through the perilous passage and enter the safe and calm waters of the harbour. The forerunner carried the ship’s anchor and a line attached to the ship. Once in the harbour, the forerunner would drop the anchor, which would embed itself into the harbour floor. Sailors in the ship would then pull in the line, which would draw their ship safely and easily into the harbour. What a lovely picture of what the Lord Jesus has done for us!
Our hope is not in anything that we can do to bring ourselves into the calm haven of Glory. No, our hope is in the anchor that the Lord Jesus has carried into Glory for us; we but draw in the line and find ourselves with Him. Yes, life has rough seas and perilous rocks and shoals. Yes, dangers are on every hand, and the elements of the world are warring against us. Yes, we are in a struggle with sorrow and pain, with sin and temptation, with discouragement and human weaknesses. But our hope is not in ourselves, but in the One who has already crossed the most perilous part of the trip and carried our anchor into Glory.
Do we shrink from life’s troubles and terrors? Give thanks today that the Lord Jesus has already passed through those waters for us. Do we dread the king of terrors – death, and all the illnesses and weaknesses that would drag us into his cruel grasp? Praise God that Jesus Himself has already tasted death for us!
What sorrows and temptations await your passage today? Fear not, because your Forerunner has already dropped anchor on the other side. Draw close to Him today and appreciate the victory already won. – Jim MacIntosh