1 Therefore, since we have so great a cloud of witnesses surrounding us, let us also lay aside every encumbrance and the sin which so easily entangles us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, 2 fixing our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of faith, who for the joy set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.
Hebrews 11:1-2
The author of Hebrews points us to three actions that Jesus performed on our behalf through the cross of Calvary. Our wonderful Savior gave Himself up, suffered for lost people, and died on the rebel’s behalf for the remission of sins. A wonderful Savior is Jesus our Lord!
Christ endured the cross for us. He was tortured and shed His blood willingly. Jesus died upon the cross for our sinfulness and He was slain on our account. The agony the Son of God endured was beyond comprehension. His love for us compelled Him to be wounded in our place.
Jesus was shamed for our benefit. He died as a common criminal in a public execution so that sinful humanity could be forgiven and restored to God. The shameful nature of His death was palpable as those at the foot of the cross jeered Him and mocked Him. Yet, Christ, the perfect one, endured the shame for you and me.
The Savior triumphed over death and the cross. He rose again and took His rightful place at the throne of God. He sat down at the right hand of the throne signifying that the work of redemption and justification is complete. No other sacrifice would be needed. Jesus paid it all!
In light of these wonderful acts, let us fix our eyes upon Jesus as the writer of Hebrews instructs us. He is the author and finisher of our faith. In Christ, the Believer is complete, sanctified, and secure. Jesus won the victory decisively and fully. And that is something for which to thank the Lord for all of eternity.
mrtonyfrench 