Hebrews 12:1-3
March Madness is a study in perseverance, The annual NCAA men's
and women's basketball tournaments close what has already been a long and
grinding season with a three week tournament of games for the purpose of
crowning a champion. Along the way there are upsets as lower seeded teams
surprise their supposed superiors, while some teams prove the validity of their
lofty rankings. I must say, on more than one occasion over the years, I have
thought the team I was rooting for was too far behind, too worn out to win the
game, only to be surprised that they found unexpected strength to finish well
and advance to the next game.
The writer of Hebrews challenged his readers to persevere, even
in the midst of what seemed to be hopeless circumstances. He offered the
example of Jesus who would not be deterred by the obstacles of human sin. His
purposeful march to the cross was accomplished because he kept his focus on the
will of his heavenly Father who empowered his every step. But there is
something else for us here, for in noting his example, we are encouraged to
"not grow weary or lose heart."
On this Wednesday of Holy Week, we are nearing the cross. There
are numerous obstacles that stand between us and the cross of Christ, but take
heart, persevere, for as Christ joyfully embraced the cross, so too may we as we
trust our heavenly Father to empower our every step.
Prayer: One more step, and then another, Lord. Give strength to
complete the journey, to take up my cross and follow you. Amen.
Jim Abernathy
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