DECEMBER 25, Hebrews 12:1-2

Yesterday we talked about faith seen in our actions. Today, we read a phrase in verse 1 - "Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses." What does this mean? This means that we can learn from the great men of faith in the Bible, how they overcame very difficult circumstances with faith in action. These are the many people whose stories we may already be familiar with, both in the Old and New Testaments.

You may see some other Christians around you who may be good examples of the faith. These could be your pastor, your parent, or some missionary you may have read about. All of them show us how we may follow their good example. However, remember none of these people are perfect. While we may learn from certain aspects of their life, they have their personal failings too. Who, then, may we see as a perfect example of faith? Verse 2 gives the answer: "Jesus the author and finisher of our faith."

What does it mean when the Bible says “Jesus is the author of our faith”? That means Jesus, who is God, is the one who creates and starts our faith. To have saving faith in Jesus is a gift from God. It was God who knew we would fall into sin, and it was God who planned the perfect way of salvation for us – through the death and resurrection of Jesus. That selfless sacrifice bought and brought us to salvation – that is why we say that Jesus is the author of our faith.

And what about Jesus being the “finisher of our faith”? It means that once a person truly believes in Jesus and becomes a Christian, God will sustain his faith. There will be many times when a Christian is tested, tempted, and tried. He may have a lot of tough times and difficulties in life. He would not be perfect; he would continue to sin. But if he is really a believer and has faith in God, this true faith cannot be lost, taken away or given away. This gives us great comfort – Christ has created our faith and He will watch over it, care for it, and sustain it.

Thought: Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith!

Prayer: Father in Heaven, I thank You that in Jesus, my salvation is sure and complete. I know I continue to fall along the way and sin, but heavenly Father, please teach me to rely on You daily so that I may be a strong Christian. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.