So great a cloud

Therefore, since we are encompassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us set aside every sin which does so easily beset us and let us run with perseverance the race that is set before us. Let us fix our eyes on Jesus...

This evening's illustrations:

• The crowd in the movie Miracle. The 1980 USA Olympic hockey team was struggling, but the crowd in the stands was calling to them - encouraging them in their fight. But even with that crowd of witnesses, they still needed to fix their eyes on the the goal.
  
• Those who have passed on before us. The wife of our leader in Myanmar died today. She contracted hepatitis through a blood transfusion several years ago. After many years of faithful service alongside her husband, the she went to be with the Lord. Pray for her family to fix their eyes on the Lord.
  
• You. As I labor and work here in this office, cheering on the missionaries, you are cheering for me. Thank you so much for your prayers and support! Pray that I would continue to fix my eyes on the Lord.