When we live with hope, we begin to move beyond our circumstances. In the New Testament epistle of Hebrews we read these words:
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. 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. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart. (Hebrews 12:1-3, NIV)
Immediately before this, the writer had addressed heroes of the faith who pursued God with faith and hope during their earthly lives even in the face of challenging circumstances and though, at times, they never fully experienced God’s blessing in this life. Building from that, the writer calls his readers – and us – to hopeful perseverance by looking at the examples of Jesus.
When we look at Jesus hopeful approach to His earthly life, we see two companions of hope – two attitudes or approaches – that marked His life. Read the rest of this entry »
