Christian perseverance in our life of faith
"Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us rid ourselves of every burden and sin that clings to us and persevere in running the race that lies before us while keeping our eyes fixed on Jesus, the leader and perfecter of faith. For the sake of the joy that lay before him, he endured the cross, despising its shame, and has taken his seat at the right hand of the throne of God." (Hebrews 12:1–2) This exhortation from the Letter to the Hebrews summons the Christian community to steadfast perseverance in the life of faith. Drawing on the imagery of an athletic race, the author places the believer within a great spiritual arena, encircled by the “cloud of witnesses”—the saints and martyrs who have already completed their course. This cloud is not merely a passive audience but an active testimony to the faithfulness of God and the possibility of enduring fidelity. Their memory strengthens the resolve of the living Church, reminding her that she run...