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“Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith.” —Hebrews 12:1-2

Maintaining faith in our Lord is a matter of persistence and can be compared to a marathon race. Marathons are not about how fast an individual can run, but the endurance one possesses to travel an extended distance. Faith calls for the same kind of endurance.

Throughout our life journey, as in a marathon, there will be moments where we will feel like giving up; but looking to Jesus will help us persevere. The cloud of witnesses refers to all the saints who have already completed the race and are vivid examples of what we, too, can achieve. What is the goal of this “faith” marathon? Jesus! And fixing our eyes on the goal can help us reach it.

What does perseverance in faith mean to you?

Activity: Google St. Nicholas, the “real” Santa Claus. What qualities of his would you want to emulate?

“Stand at the crossroads and look; ask for the ancient paths, ask where the good way is, and walk in it, and you will find rest for your souls…” —Jeremiah 6: 16

Sometimes in life we find ourselves standing at a crossroads not knowing which direction to take. The options are extensive and choosing the correct path may seem next to impossible because there are so many unknowns lying ahead. This passage asks us to reflect on “the ancient paths” – the guidance of tradition, the church, and respected elders. At such times, we’re advised to embrace God for insight into the good ways. We do not have to pick blindly, but let God help us to see where he is guiding us.

When in your life have you turned to God for guidance?

Activity: Before making the next important decision in you life, take some time to not only think with your head, but with your Christian heart, and God will surely lead you in the right direction.

“He replied, ‘If you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mulberry tree, ‘Be uprooted and planted in the sea,’ and it will obey you’.” —Luke 17: 6

Having faith means believing and trusting in something you cannot physically see. As a Christian, I have faith in God and the mission he has for all of us here on earth even though he is not physically present. These verses tell us how powerful faith can be, no matter the amount. Having faith, even as small as a mustard seed, can help make the impossible possible.

How has your faith surprised you?

Activity: Think of something that is troubling you right now. Let your faith in God lead you to a solution, even if it simply letting go of something you cannot control.

“Remember your leaders, who spoke the word of God to you. Consider the outcome of their way of life and imitate their faith.” —Hebrews 13:17

The clergy in the Armenian Church have been a great source of guidance for me throughout life’s journey. Observing their strong faith, love for God, and paths through life have made me a better Christian by following their example, and I believe this passage really speaks to what I have experienced.

At a young age we are always very impressionable and look to those older than we are for guidance and direction. When it comes to faith and learning the Word of God, the leaders of the Armenian Church are a great resource – whether it’s a Sunday School teacher, pastor, a parish lay leader, or Diocesan bishop. These are the people who are committed to living out their faith daily and challenge all of us to do the same.

Do you study and learn from the spiritual leaders in your life?

Activity: Think of specific people in the church who stand out as examples of deep faith and service.. Give thanks for them and keep them in your prayers.

“I tell you that in the same way there will be more rejoicing in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who do not need to repent.” — Luke 15: 7

Although as Christians we try to live according to God’s will, imperfection lies within each of us. We share an unfortunate tendency to sin, as symbolized by Adam and Eve’s disobedience in the Garden of Eden. Jesus tells us in these verses that, even so, God will joyously celebrate when sinners ask him to forgive their sins. When we act righteously, we are already doing the right thing. But when we do sinful things and repent, God rejoices because we have understood that what we did was wrong and needs to be set right.

Do you sincerely repent after committing a sin?

Activity: Own up to the mistakes you make in any area of your life. Learn from them, make amends where possible, and move on.

“Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope.”  —Romans 5: 3-4

When my father lost his older brother several years ago, my heart filled with anguish not only for my father, but for my grandparents who had to witness the passing of their child. It was a time filled with tears, frustration, anger, and sadness, and at the time it seemed impossible for hearts to mend from the loss of my uncle. It was a challenge for everyone in my family to deal with, but as time went on the pain started to dissolve and the experience strengthened each one of us. This Romans passage reminds me of my family’s suffering and how much stronger we all came out on the other side.

Although life will be filled with exciting and joyous moments, suffering will also be part of the journey. When immersed in painful experiences, whatever they may be, it is hard to see the end of grief, but it is those moments of suffering which truly shape our character and allow us to emerge on the other side as stronger individuals.

Have you ever felt stronger after a period of suffering?

Activity: Think of some tough times you have been through, and instead of wishing they didn’t happen, embrace the experiences and reflect on what you have learned from them.

“If anyone comes to me and does not hate father and mother, wife and children, brothers and sisters—yes, even their own life—such a person cannot be my disciple. And whoever does not carry their cross and follow me cannot be my disciple.” — Luke 14:26-27

Making Christ a priority above all else is the first step towards being his true disciple. We might worship him on Sunday and read the Bible and learn about him, but it is only by taking up his cross that we can follow in his path. In this passage, Christ emphasizes this point with an extreme example: that all those we love – even ourselves! -  come second to discipleship. It’s a matter of giving him our all; when we do, we discover life’s deepest meaning.

Following Christ requires a great deal of sacrifice and if we do not give him everything we are and everything we have — attitudes, motivations, decisions, actions — then we fall short of being a disciple.

In what ways do you carry a cross?

Activity: List specific behaviors that mark you as Jesus’ disciple. If you can’t think of any, list five you can begin to practice.

“Love righteousness, you rulers of the earth, think of the Lord in goodness and seek him with sincerity of heart; because he is found by those who do not put him to the test, and manifests himself to those who do not distrust him.”                        Wisdom of Solomon 1:1-2

When our hearts are committed to God and we seek him with sincere faith, God promises that we will find him. He asks us to embrace a righteous life of trust and faith and be confident that, no matter what, he is always with us. If we put God “to the test,” he will be hard to see amid the questioning, demands, and doubts. With a strong and everlasting love for our Lord, we will, in turn, discover his love and will for us.

Do you trust God enough to see him clearly in the busyness of life?

Activity: Practice trust. Whatever happens today, think only of God’s ever-present grace.

“Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and he will establish your plans. The Lord works out everything to its proper end—even the wicked for a day of disaster.” —Proverbs 16: 3-4

People pray to God for many things. Some may pray for a family member to get better, a better paying job, to find love, a nice sports car, and the list goes on. We pray to God asking him for various things, and although he listens when we speak to him, God does not necessarily give us what we want, but what we need. Instead of feeling angry or frustrated when we do not get what we ask for, we might do better to remember what prayer is really all about – helping us grow closer to the very heart of God. Trusting God’s plan for us and all of creation isn’t easy, but it’s what faith is all about.

Are your prayers a wish list or a loving conversation?

Activity: Instead of praying to God about personal needs, today simply share the events and feelings of your day.

“But when you give a banquet, invite the poor, the crippled, the lame, the blind, and you will be blessed. Although they cannot repay you, you will be repaid at the resurrection of the righteous.” —Luke 14: 13-14

People often do things for others with the thought of gaining something in return. They might add to their wedding guest list in anticipation of more presents. Or buy an expensive birthday gift for a friend and expect a costly gift when their own special day comes around. Or invite to dinner only the people who might reciprocate.

But this is not living according to God’s standards. We should not make decisions based on what will be gained in return; rather we should do things for others purely out of gracious love. The greater reward will be God’s blessing.

Do you make decisions with the thought of gaining something in return?

Activity: Do something extraordinary for someone you know cannot repay you.