Theme: The crucifixion as inspiration

Exegetical note
The writer here conceives Old Testament luminaries as a crowd of spectators at a "race of faith," whose prize is joy. The runners are facilitated by the encouragement of these witnesses, as well as inspired by Christ's having completed the course on the cross. The suffering Jesus is thus appealed to as the model contestant against sin, weariness, and faintheartedness.

Call to Worship
Leader: Fellow contestants in the race of faith, let us look to those who have gone befo…