Part of the Crowd

“Since we are surrounded by such a huge crowd of witnesses to the life of faith, let us strip off every weight that slows us down, especially the sin that so easily hinders our progress. And let us run with endurance the race that God has set before us.”

Hebrews 12:1

• Althea was a treasured friend—a mother-mentor. We met while I was in college, and later I did my student teaching in her city so I could live with her and her husband. Ever so practical, she taught me the value of ministering without excessive fanfare. She prayed with me. She helped me take God seriously. As I grew up, married, and got busy with life, Althea continued to be that example of faith. One morning I learned Althea had passed away, and I had missed the opportunity to say good-bye. For weeks, sadness dominated my life. I caught myself thinking in her voice, laughing at shared experiences, and crying when I should have been working. When the pain subsided, I found rejoicing possible. I had always counted Althea among God’s faithful; now she is with those the Bible describes as the “huge crowd of witnesses.” The witnesses encourage us, who are left behind, to continue in faithfulness.

#inspiration #cupofcomfort