THE SERMON ON THE MOUNT

A Cloud of Witnesses

 Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, (Hebrews 12:1)

 Davidson’s birthday was last Tuesday. Throughout the day, he received several Facebook posts wishing him a “Happy Birthday!”. These posts came from several Fairlane members who have embraced Davidson and made him feel welcome within the Fairlane family. Some of the posts were from our friends in Lafayette, LA, who watched Davidson grow up and have invested into his life throughout the years. Some of the posts were from friends in Tallahassee and Chattanooga who have watched him grow up from afar but still pray for him and enjoy hearing news about his life and what our family is doing.

As I reflected upon these posts, my thoughts turned to the “cloud of witnesses” referenced in Hebrews 12. Of course, this verse alludes to the “heroes of faith” detailed in Hebrews 11, but it occurs to me that Davidson has been and continues to be surrounded by a “cloud of witnesses” in his life. These men and women, which includes his Fairlane family, have blessed his life immeasurably. They have loved him, encouraged him, at times corrected him, laughed with him, cried with him and continually pointed him to Jesus. They have encouraged his strengths, helped him with his weaknesses, and shown patience with a young boy maturing into a teenager. They have seen him at his best and at his worst and loved him through it all. This “cloud of witnesses” has made an immeasurable eternal difference in his life.

As I reflect upon my life, I have been surrounded by men and women throughout my life who have been part of my faith journey. They have continually pointed me to Jesus and encouraged me to be the very best version of me that I could be. They have invested their time, energy and talents into my life and I am richer for knowing them and experiencing their presence in my life. This “cloud of witnesses” has made an eternal difference in my life.

If you are reading this, you have your own “cloud of witnesses”. There are men and women who have made an eternal difference in your life. They have loved you, sacrificed for you, challenged you and walked with you through the joys and sorrows of this life. They have been with you through it all and you are better because of it. Because of their faithfulness to you, you are a better person and a stronger disciple of Christ.

Thank God for your “cloud of witnesses” today. If possible, send someone a note or give them a phone call to thank them for the eternal difference they have made in your life. I’m thankful for all of these “clouds of witnesses” that have blessed us and encouraged us and held us close to Christ.