Hebrews 12:1-3 Therefore we also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. For consider Him who endured such hostility from sinners against Himself, lest you become weary and discouraged in your souls.

Years ago, I coached a little girl to compete in swimming for the Special Olympics. It was the first time that I had participated and I was close to tears the entire time. Those kids all tried so hard but there were several noticeable differences between Special Olympics and other competitions.

All the kids tried very hard but if one fell down in a race – the others would stop and help them out. They all wanted everyone to finish and so while they all did their best to finish the race, they also did their best to see that everyone made it to the goal.

Everyone who was not racing was cheering for everyone who was. They were not just cheering for their own students or children. They were there to support every single person competing.

Even the motto ‘Let me win, but if I cannot win, let me be brave in the attempt,’ reminds me of this passage.

I believe that this is what we as the church are called to do. We are to finish the race before us because we are surrounded by a cloud of witnesses. But…we are also to BE the cloud of witnesses – encouraging each other when the way seems long and dark. When one stumbles, we should all help them up. It’s often that encouragement, whether we are giving or receiving,, that is the thing that keeps us from becoming weary and discouraged in our souls. And we should want everyone to reach the goal because God desires that none should perish and should we not all want what God wants?