An Exhortation To Keep Running

The text opens with a consequent or inferential injunction "Therefore" (12v1), reminding believers to
look at the cloud of witnesses of chapter 11 , who ran their race and finished the course with unwavering
trust and faithfulness. Notwithstanding their infirmities, weaknesses and frailties relative to us, they
served God in their time. And so, must we. With three concise charges; to: (1) " Run evading" - 'laying
aside all encumbrances (illustrating a sporty-oriental garment) and sin that so easily entangle us (sin[s]
that are known to us)…"; (2) "Run Enduring" – 'let us run with endurance and (3) "Run Emulating and
Engaged – " fixing our eyes on Jesus, the author (source and originator) and perfecter (the consummation
and the end of…) – of our faith. Believers are called upon to emulate Him who "..for the joy set before
Him, endured the cross, despising the shame and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God
(Christ as our conquering comforter, He is our hope) . Christ, as our sympathizing High Priest (4v15); He
able to strengthen God's people to the end. Hence, as children of God Most High, we should commit to
run the race "set before us" – (12v1), and finish the course unflinchingly, to the glory of God.