Hebrews 12: 1-2 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, 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,

Some in life have the opportunity to be great at something. Whether you are an athlete or are great at playing the Cello. Imagine being so good that you are in front of a great crowd of admirers who cheer you on. This would be a wonderful feeling I suppose. I never have had an experience like this, but I imagine it would feel great. This would drive you as a performer or athlete to lay aside everything except that would make you better at your craft. Do you know we have that in the spiritual world?

Here in Hebrews we are told that we as Christians have a great cloud of witnesses. These can be saints who have passed on, angels or both. This should inspire us to lay aside everything as a Christian that holds us back so we can grow and be better Christians. There are lust, greed, pride and other various sins that would do this. Maybe we are not following Christ as closely as we should. Whatever it is, we are to put it down. Jesus calls us to crucify the flesh daily. But why?

Because of the joy that was set before Christ that He would gladly go to the cross. What is this joy? It is you, and it is me. We are His joy. Too many of us walk around not realizing how much love and joy Christ has for us. We are His great treasure. This is what the world and sin blinds us from. This is what should drive us to be better. Do you know the Christ in which I am speaking of? If not, today is the the day to ask, seek and knock to find the One who loves our soul.