CONGRATULATIONS!
Kudos to all the graduates whether it is college, high school, 6th grade, K-5. I would be remiss if I didn’t mention those who have worked to achieve higher degrees. Congratulations to all of you. As a matter of fact, congratulations to all the students, teachers, and parents who have made it through one of the toughest years imaginable. Between homeschool, virtual school, and in-class learning, this year has been a challenge for all. My hat is off to everyone who made this year the best it can be. I am very proud of all of you for what you have accomplished.
Pictures
Pictures have flooded Facebook with the precious faces of loved ones. Old and young alike are being acknowledged for their accomplishments. So much love has been shown through the pictures shared by proud family members. The awards won by so many are worth mentioning as well. Good job to everyone who worked so hard to make this year a success. Thank you.
Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and the sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith”
Hebrews 12:1,2a ESV
https://bible.com/bible/59/heb.12.2.ESV
Cloud of Witnesses
The previous verses in Hebrews chapter 11 tell of some of the people who lived in faith despite the hardships and obstacles that were in their path. These people are the cloud of witnesses described in Hebrews 12:1. These witnesses are not watching over us from heaven, but are examples to us. They overcame the obstacles and hindrances to achieving by faith.
But now you must put them all away: anger, wrath, malice, slander, and obscene talk from your mouth.
Colossians 3:8 ESV
https://bible.com/bible/59/col.3.8.ESV
Sin and Distractions
Hebrews 12 tells us to lay aside every weight and sin. Colossians gives us a list of some of these hindrances. The sins in our lives slow down our progress to achieve the things we need to achieve. Our goals and ambitions get sidetracked when we allow sin and distractions to occupy our time and minds.
Glorify Jesus Christ
School may be over for you. Perhaps you are retired. Many are working and/or raising a family. Life continues, but we have an ultimate goal or race to run. The race is to glorify Jesus Christ in all we say and do. We must be obedient to His call and obey His will for our life. In all we do, we must be looking to Jesus. Keep running the race. Keep your eyes on Jesus Christ. He is the One who perfects our faith.
Again, congratulations to all who have accomplished so much. From this point on, keep running the race that God sets before you.
Paula Wallace
