ON NOT LOSING HEART
“Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight and the sin that clings so closely, and let us run with perseverance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus the pioneer and perfecter of our faith, who for the sake of the joy that was set before him endured the cross, disregarding its shame, and has taken his seat at the right hand of the throne of God.
Consider him who endured such hostility against himself from sinners, so that you may not grow weary or lose heart.”
Hebrews 12:1-3. A Lectionary Reading for Wednesday of Holy Week
REFLECTION
The onslaught verbal treachery affects all who take seriously their obligations. Politicians distort their opponents’ words. Good people find their lives crushed under the wheel of political or economic expediency. Sneering pundants mischaracterize and thereby marginalize ideas otherwise worthy of consideration. Leaders sanction violence in the name of God. Despair begins to seem like the only response. In the face of this horror, we are tempted to give up and watch American Idol. The author of Hebrews reminds us, however, that while the pressures may grind us down, we must not lose heart. We are indeed surrounded by a great cloud of witnesses.
CS
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