All Saints Day: A Cloud of Witnesses

Contributed by Lynn Domina (Michigan USA
All Saints Day Devotional
(Adapted by SoJourner)

Hebrews 12:1-3
(1)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 for us.
(2) fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and the perfecter of our 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.
(3)Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.

     I have enjoyed watching videos of choirs from around the world as they sing hymns, some particular to their own cultures and others familiar to almost all Christians. In one video, people from around the world sing "Amazing Grace," each line sung in a different language -- English, Norwegian, German, Hebrew, Chinese, Arabic, and many others. The voices come together using different words but the same melody. In another video, 800 musicians, from around the world, perform this hymn in English.  We see images of them in all their diversity -- young and old, percussionists and cellists, individuals with various complexions. Their music inspired and encourages me.

     "It's the communion of saints," I thought the first time I saw it. In Christ we are connected to one another by this  communion of saints, this mighty cloud of witness.  Whenever I find myself in the midst of a personal crisis, I'm reassured by the support I feel from all these saints.  In every moment, we are supported by the prayers of millions who have gone before us and yet continue to accompany us, known and unknown,  they are here with us, inviting us into their eternal chorus.

Prayer

Faithful God, help us to remember to offer support to, and receive help from, one another. Thank you, Lord, for the body of Christ, Your Church, Your people, who live all over planet  Earth.  Keep us mindful of our brother's and sisters who are present here sharing this life with us, and please keep us mindful of those who are in Heaven -- "as our faithful witnesses" -- who are encouraging us, from Heaven, to keep running the race of life. Help us keep our eyes focused on Jesus, and help us, by your grace, and your by your power, to keep on keeping on running for Your glory.
In Jesus Name.

*Bloggers note:  I have been, for a short period of time, in the other dimension, and I know the Heavenly Cloud of witness do indeed witness, encourage, and hear us, for I was, briefly allowed to do so. But then God brought me back. Both The Apostles Creed and The Holy Bible correctly describe this using mere words.

SoJourner