[0412E] Epistle for Holy Wednesday

Hebrews 12:1-3

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. Consider him who endured such hostility against himself from sinners, so that you may not grow weary or lose heart.

This is the Epistle for Holy Wednesday.  In this reading, the Church is reminded that we are surrounded by the saints of God as a cloud that hovers over us and completes the presence of the Church in the world.  In the midst of this cloud of witnesses, we see the victorious Christ who gathers all the people of God, the Church on earth and the Church in heaven.  The author of Hebrews uses this image to encourage us who still live by faith to press on in our confession of faith and in living in faithfulness and obedience to Christ.

The Rev’d Father Timothy Alleman, Rector

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