Living Out JusticeSample

Our faith inheritance: how do we fit into this story?

'Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith.’ (Hebrews 12:1-2, NIV)

Reflect:

In Hebrews 11, we read of the great story of God’s redeeming love as told through the narratives of Old Testament figures who walked a path of faith and trusted God in uncertainty. Sarah laughed at the promise of a son, yet through her came the lineage of nations. Hagar wandered in the wilderness and encountered the God who sees. Rahab, an outsider, was drawn into the family of God’s people.

These women form part of the great cloud of witnesses in Hebrews 12. Their stories remind us that faith is not about perfection, but about perseverance, trust and surrender. As followers of Jesus, this is our faith inheritance. We stand upon the testimonies of those who have gone before us.

The exciting part? God’s redemptive story is still unfolding, and he invites us to participate in it! Just as Rahab sheltered the spies and received protection, just as Hagar found refuge in God’s presence, just as Sarah saw the fulfilment of God’s promise, we are called to live by faith.

Daily Action:

Over the course of this devotional, we have read stories of women and men whose lives were divinely touched. We have journeyed, generation to generation, to the life of Jesus whose resurrected life changes everything.

We have observed how ordinary people carried out acts of love, faith and kindness that have echoed through eternity and changed the world in extraordinary ways.

Today, reflect on the faith stories that have shaped your own journey. Consider the people who have supported and paved the way for you personally. Write to them and extend your gratitude and appreciation.

Ask yourself these questions. What might it look like for you to take hold of your place in this story? Who is looking to you as a witness to God’s faithfulness? What steps of trust and surrender is God inviting you into today?

Prayer:

Lord, help me to run the race before me with perseverance, fixing my eyes on you, the perfecter of my faith. May I walk in the footsteps of those who trusted you, carrying their legacy forward in love and obedience.

Inhale: God, I am surrounded by a great cloud of witnesses.

Exhale: Strengthen me to take my place in your unfolding story.