HEBREWS 12:1B-2

And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.

TO PONDER:

Who do you admire in this world? Who inspires you in life? As a young person, my friend and I were going to SANFL players...I was going to play for Port Adelaide, and he was going to play for Norwood. We spent hours kicking the footy and playing games on the front lawn of both our homes. We would take on the personas of the players that inspired us and would give our own commentary on the game as we played inspired football, dodging, weaving, bouncing, and kicking the winning goal to the adulation of the crowds! But inspiration and enthusiasm can only take you so far.

The writer to the Hebrews says a similar thing. In verse one, he says we are surrounded by a cloud of witnesses - people whose lives inspire us, challenge us, urge us on to bigger and better things. But inspiration can only take you so far in the journey of life. What we need is someone who can empower us. Empower us to persevere. and push ahead. Empower us to complete what we begin. Empower us for a living that will transform lives and communities around us. That's why he encourages us to "fix our eyes on Jesus.' He is enough in every season. For what Jesus started, he finished. What we are powerless to do, Jesus has already done. When we were lost and couldn't find a way, Jesus made a way for us to enter into his presence and bask in the Father's house forever. That's the good news which not only transforms lives, but inspires living and empower for living every moment of every day.

Jesus not only inspires your living moment by moment, but gives you everything you need to faithfully run the race and cross the finishing line. Let him inspire and empower you today!

PRAYER:

Lord Jesus, inspire and empower me today to live the resurrection life you have given to me. Amen.