This week’s readings are based on the “Behold” sermon series. For this series, we are looking at what it truly means to BEHOLD, gaze at, grasp, relish, internalize, and rejoice in Jesus Christ. Start beholding right now by giving thanks for this time with God. Then start reading the text and letting it read you.

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. 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.
Hebrews 12:1-2 (NIV)

In our faith journey of following Jesus, sometimes we can get discouraged by how far we still have to go. This happens because we often forget how far we have come.

Take a moment to reflect back over the past year. How was God present in your pain, struggles, joy, and celebration? How have you grown in becoming more like Jesus? What about His presence over the past year helps you fix your eyes on Jesus for the next?