Hebrews 12: 2 (NIVUK)

2 fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy that was set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.

If we were to meet the gaze of Jesus, what would we see in his eyes?

In September 2016 the World Championship Triathlon was held in Cozumel in Mexico. Amongst the competitors were previous Olympic gold and silver medalists, brothers Alistair and Jonathan Brownlee. Towards the end of the grueling two hour running race Johnny held a good lead followed by Alistair and next in place South African Henri Schoeman. With 500 metres to go, Johnny started to lose coordination. He started to stumble and fell into a spectator by the side of the road. As Alistair rounded the bend he saw his dangerously dehydrated brother unable to complete the race and without any hesitation caught up, threw Johnny’s arm around his neck and carried him over the finish line. In doing so he relinquished his chance to win gold and gave the race to Schoeman, the South African. As the brothers crossed the line, Alistair pushed Johnny across first, allowing him second place and placing himself third.

If we met the gaze of Jesus, amongst other things, we would encounter the kind eyes of the elder brother, the one who knows our every weakness and vulnerability, the one who shoulders us when struggling, throws our arm over his shoulder and helps us to run with perseverance the race set before us.

He is the one who has written the story of faith, the Word present since the beginning. He is the one who helps us to live into that story until the day when everything will be whole and complete and perfect. We cross the finishing line with him.

Prayer:

Lord Jesus, thank you that you hold us in all our need.

When we are dry and exhausted, help us to hold your gaze and find there all encouragement, strength and perseverance for the road ahead.

Amen

Written by

Katy Emslie-Smith