From the Director of Faith Formation 

Do not grow weary or lose heart

As we enter the final term of the school year, the words of Hebrews 12:1-3 come to mind.

The writers says,

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, 2 fixing our eyes upon Jesus, the pioneer and perfector of faith. For the joy set before him, he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. 3 Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.

For many of our students, this is the time of year when they have to really focus on finishing assignments and final submissions, to consolidate grades for assessment. Cheer them on! 

They’ve been working hard all year, and they are in our prayers! Whilst this is true for our students, have you considered this for your own life? 

The end of the year is rapidly approaching, and before we know it, we will be in the beginnings of Christmas and summer breaks – time snaps on by! 

Yet, take a moment to pause. 

In the potential weariness that may try to nestle upon us, in the busyness of future planning or the not so simple routines of daily life- juggling music lessons, sporting commitments, our children’s social activities (let alone our own), working, cleaning houses, cooking meals, walking the dog and the like - a challenge is laid before us as we look at this scripture. 

Upon what are you fixing your eyes? 

Do we consider Jesus, so that we will not ‘grow weary and lose heart’?

When we ‘fix our eyes’ on something, it consumes our all. 

Think of the runner in an endurance scenario. They doggedly keep putting one foot in front of the other, eyes locked on the finish line. Cramping muscles do not stop them, blistered feet are endured; they continue onwards until the finish line is crossed, and it is only then that they address the screams of their body that has been pushed to its limits.

Are we fixing our eyes on Jesus such that the busyness and distractions of life do not sway us? It is hard to do so.

Yet the writer gives us hope. As we fix our eyes upon Jesus, we are to ‘consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart’.

Jesus, God’s very Son, endured death upon the cross, burial in a tomb and resurrection from the grave. In the work of Jesus there is hope for all creation, that those who ‘fix their eyes on Jesus’ will be empowered from on high to endure the pressings of life… and come through the other side. 

My prayer for you, in whatever season you may find yourself in, with whatever lies before you, is that you may know the fullness of hope that Jesus is with you. 

Keep on keeping on. Be kind to those around you. Give generously to those as you see need. Encourage one another. In the busy run to the end of the year, be kind to yourself and to others, and ask yourself the question, ‘Upon what, and who am I fixing my eyes? ’

Perhaps at this point in the year, it is time to reorient our focus as we step boldly onwards.

Peace to you,

Adam Wood

Director of Faith Formation