"Therefore, since we also have such a large cloud of witnesses surrounding us, let us lay aside every weight and the sin that so easily ensnares us. Let us run with endurance the race that lies before us..." Hebrews 12:1

I heard about a challenge, the GORUCK Challenge, recently on a podcast that I was listening to. They describe it as:

"Inspired by the most elite training offered to Special Forces soldiers and led by Green Berets, the GORUCK Challenge is a team event and never a race. Challenge cadre build each class into a team through collective conditions of mental and physical exhaustion. Classes are small, camaraderie is high, smiles are plentiful, and teamwork is paramount."

It's an insanely demanding event that will push you to your ultimate physical limit. It's a team-based event that doesn't pit you against other people but helps you work together to achieve something much more than you thought capable.

That is what I think of when I read Hebrews 12:1. We aren't running a marathon of individuals all striving to get our best times against other Christian brothers and sisters. We are a part of something more akin to the Amazing Race. We are teamed with others in the Gospel. We have our "large cloud of witnesses" that help us to motivate each other and persevere when all seems lost, or when it gets really tough.

We are in this together to glorify a God that patiently nurtures and supports us as we do our best to give Him the ultimate renown that He deserves. This will not be easy. This is not easy. But we have support. Not only do we have the God of creation but we also have, His bride, the church.

"Let us run with endurance the [team challenge] that lies before us..."