Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us, Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.
Hebrews 12:1-2
It was not the power of Rome that held Jesus on the cross. It was not the nails that kept Him on the tree. He endured the physical anguish of the crucifixion and the spiritual anguish of the weight of our sin not because He was forced to do so, but because of His great love for us. Jesus said, “Therefore doth my Father love me, because I lay down my life, that I might take it again. No man taketh it from me, but I lay it down of myself. I have power to lay it down, and I have power to take it again. This commandment have I received of my Father” (John 10:17-18). The path Jesus took to purchase our salvation was not an easy one. He did not escape pain and heartbreak and anguish. But He did endure the cross, going through all of that because it was worth it.
When we are faced with trials and challenges, it is crucial for us not to forget the reason for what we are enduring, and to turn to God for help. Horatius Bonar wrote, “The road to the Kingdom is not so pleasant, and comfortable, and easy, and flowery, as many dream. It is not a bright sunny avenue of palms. It is not paved with triumph, though it is to end in victory. The termination is glory, honor, and immortality; but on the way, there is the thorn in the flesh, the sackcloth, and the cross. Recompense later; but labor here! Rest later; but weariness here! Joy and security later; but here endurance and watchfulness—the race, the battle, the burden, the stumbling block, and oftentimes the heavy heart.”
