How do we best navigate this joyous path of discipleship when it brings conflict and division?
The second reading from the Letter to the Hebrews offers us insight and hope, saying, 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.
This great … cloud of witnesses are the saints, our brothers and sisters in faith who have shown
by their example that the gift of faith can withstand the tumult and difficulties of this life. Our
circumstances may differ, but the universal experience of suffering means that those who went
before us know what we are facing, and in their proven faithfulness and their prayers for us we,
too, can complete the race.
We can also add to our personal cloud of witnesses the people we loved who have gone before
us. Their encouragement, in addition to the graces we receive in the sacraments, strengthen us
for the journey.
Finally, we are exhorted in our troubles to keep our eyes fixed on Jesus, the leader and
perfecter of faith. Who better than Jesus can we turn to when, in following him, we face
difficulties and persecution? Therefore, as we contemplate the challenges of being true
Christians, we know we can find strength through Jesus and inspiration and encouragement
from those who have lived faithful lives.
