Witnesses

5 Feb

Since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses,
let us rid ourselves of every burden and sin that clings to us
and persevere in running the race that lies before us
while keeping our eyes fixed on Jesus,
the leader and perfecter of faith.  (Heb 12:1-2a)

“Do you swear to tell the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth, so help you God?”

Taking an oath, being “sworn in” for a trial, can be a momentous experience for someone.

At that time, the person recognizes the  responsibility being assumed and also realizes the consequences for not reporting factually/honestly.  The penalty for perjury can be quite high.

Because of that, we place a great deal of importance upon witnesses.  We look forward to what they have to say to us.  We expect that they will help to uncover things that might remain hidden.

In today’s letter to the Hebrews, we are reminded about the great number of witnesses who have gone before us in the faith.  They have testified by the word of their mouths, by the action of their lives, even — for some — by the shedding of their blood.

We cannot let their testimony go unnoticed.

Nor can we fail to remember that we, too, are called to be witnesses today.

FAITH ACTION:  The Sisters used to ask us, “If you were arrested for being Christian, would there be enough evidence to convict you?”  Be a true, living witness to Christ’s love this day.