Hebrews 11 records examples of faith by the patriarchs and other Old Testament saints. It is a “Faith Hall of Fame” with many called out by name. Countless others are unnamed but honored by their acts of heroism, sacrifice and faith. With those heroes and heroines of faith positioned as witnesses, the author of Hebrews challenges the reader to run their own race of faith with endurance.
The Hebrews road race analogy presents an interesting phenomenon of the human spirit, even today. Spectators (witnesses) line up along the race course and cheer on runners, most of whom they don’t know. They just know the runners need encouragement. That encouragement makes a difference. The runner who seems to be struggling responds with a renewed strength to finish the race. Spectators remind us we’re not alone, someone is there who cares and supports us. Their presence gives us strength when our energy is spent and challenges us to give our best.
Those Faith Hall of Fame witnesses are not the only ones watching us. Even today, we are surrounded by witnesses. Some witnesses are more mature saints who have set an example for us, and expect us to follow accordingly. There are our peers, who run along with us, and find it encouraging to have someone in the race with them. There are the less mature, perhaps younger runners who are quietly watching and following our example. Then, there are the doubtful spectators along the race course, uncertain about getting in the race. They need to see that the race is worth running. So don’t look tired and defeated; otherwise you may discourage them from entering the race.
The end of a race is always worth watching. Runners who have completed the course go to the sidelines to encourage others still running. But the greatest phenomenon in a road race is the person who finishes the race well ahead of everyone else, then turns around to encourage and run with everyone else—Jesus. He is the witness who understands the agony that comes with running the race. His presence reminds us of all He endured for us, ensures we know we are not alone, and challenges us to persevere.
Perhaps you are tired and want to give up, nervous about the future and want to turn back, or lacking confidence and simply want to hide along the race route. Persevere, you have witnesses who need you to continue on. And you have Jesus, running with you, step by step!
Lesson to Remember: Run the race as if someone is watching you, because they are!
“Do you not know that those who run in a race all run, but one receives the prize? Run in such a way that you may obtain it. And everyone who competes for the prize is temperate in all things. Now they do it to obtain a perishable crown, but we for an imperishable crown.”—1 Corinthians 9:24-25
