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Scripture for the day: Hebrews 12:1-3 12 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, 2 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.
Thought for the day: Every once in a while, I come across these verses in the book of Hebrews. What an encouragement they must have been to those who received this letter. The writer had just spent some time producing a lengthy list of heroes of the faith, from Abraham on down through the history of God’s people. We, you and I, have had the privilege of adding to that list from time to time down through the ages. Each of us, I hope, can list at least a few that have greatly influenced their lives through the way they lived their own lives. I encourage you this morning, to consider that person who may have just come to mind.
Jesus said, “You will be my witnesses…” The question becomes: what kind of witnesses will we be? Think today, just for a few moments, of those who have gone before. From the early church: Peter, James, John, Paul and Timothy. Each of these early leaders modeled perseverance and faith in their efforts to go into all the world. From the Reformation period we point to people like Martin Luther, John Hus, John Wycliffe, who was martyred for daring to print the Bible in the language of the people, and many others. I think of John Wesley, who was locked out of many churches and ended up preaching in open fields. From his Journals we glean the following:
1738 - Sunday a.m., May 7, preached in St. Lawrence’s, was asked not to come back anymore.
Sunday p.m., May 7, preached at St. Katherine Cree’s church, deacons said, “Get out and stay out.”
Sunday a.m., May 14, preached at St. Ann’s, can’t go back there either.
Sunday afternoon, May 21, preached at St. John’s, kicked out again.
Sunday evening, May 21, preached at St. somebody else’s, Bennet’s maybe, deacons called special meeting and said I couldn’t return.
1739 - Tuesday, May 8, afternoon service, preached in a pasture in Bath, 1,000 people came to hear me.
Sunday, September 9, preached to 10,000 people three weeks in a row in Moorfields.
1742 - Friday, March 10, preached in meadow, chased out of meadow as a bull was turned loose during the services.
Wesley had a mission, given him by the Lord God Himself. The mission was to preach holiness of life to all who would listen. He could have gotten discouraged after being invited not to return to so many places, but for Wesley, the mission was more important than any persecution he might feel. If you look at the dates listed above, you’ll realize they encompass over 500 days of consistent opposition, a significant part of a person’s life in those days.
Today I see so many around the world who are facing great persecution simply for speaking out about their faith. Time after time, as they are interviewed, they are full of enthusiasm, peace, and joy at being counted worthy to suffer for the name of Christ. Look around you; be encouraged today. You are surrounded by a great cloud of witnesses whose real joy comes from watching you remain faithful in your calling.
Now go take on your world. - Bill
P.S. I'll be out of commission for the next few days, the rest of this week at least. I'm scheduled for shoulder surgery later this morning. Prayers are appreciated.