Great Cloud of Witnesses
Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight and the sin that clings so closely, and let us run with perseverance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus the pioneer and perfecter of our faith, who for the sake of the joy that was set before him endured the cross, disregarding its shame, and has taken his seat at the right hand of the throne of God.
Hebrew 12:1-2
Friends,
This coming Sunday is the first one of October and in every service we will celebrate and share communion together. Communion is one of those thin places where heaven’s presence here on earth is easier to glimpse, where God comes near to us in bread and cup. We, the broken, are offered wholeness in Christ and we drink deeply of forgiveness greater than our sin. We are also united in a community of people gathered around the world, billions of them, who look to Jesus as the pioneer and perfecter of our faith. More amazing still, we join the generations who have come before us who knew, followed and were fed by Jesus at the communion table.
This great cloud of witnesses, as the letter to the Hebrews puts it, cheers us on as we run the race set before us. It strikes me that we are called to action and perseverance - to be loosed from sin, shame and all that slows us down - because (‘since’) we are surrounded by this great gathering of witnesses. For centuries cemeteries and other burial spaces in, around and under churches told the same story: God’s grace unites us with those who come before us and those who will come after us.
I am so excited that University is building a Columbarium and Memorial Garden to provide a permanent resting place for the interment of ashes. The University Memorial Garden will provide opportunities to memorialize people who are buried elsewhere and will feature a baptismal font designed for individuals desiring immersion. I am thankful for this new space for prayer and reflection and an addition to our facility that testifies to our new life and our eternal life both found in Christ.
To purchase a niche, a memorial plaque or for more information please click HERE.
I am honored to run this race with the people of University.
Blessings,
Pastor Ben