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
“A cloud of witnesses, a noble army of martyrs, teach us by their constancy to suffer wrong with patience, and strenuously to resist evil. The daily trials we meet with from others or from ourselves are always sent us by God, Who sometimes throws difficulties in our way on purpose to reward our conquest; and sometimes, like a wise physician, restores us to our health by bitter potions.”
Pamphilus of Caesarea in The Lives of the Saints by Alan Butler, 1894 (Global Grey edition, 2019) 1 June reading.
As I continue through this classic work, The Lives of the Saints, quotes like this one from an early church martyr provide rich insight and inspiration for my Christian journey and my generosity.
And the header photo comes from inside the Saint Sophia Cathedral in Kyiv, Ukraine, where the names and faces of martyrs like Pamphilus line the arches of the 1,000 year old church.
Firstly, Pamphilus calls us to “resist” evil. It’s a draw for all of us to move toward the flesh. We must not succumb. Instead, we must suffer wrong with patience and strenuously resist evil.
Secondly, he says us that often God allows difficulties to “reward our” conquest. Another way to say this would be that trials cause our true colors to shine in victory. This was the case with martyrs.
Thirdly, God throws challenges our way to “restore” us to health by bitter potions. To take us from nominal Christians to committed disciples. In that sense, they come into view as good medicine for us.
Where do you find yourself today? Strenuously resisting evil? Facing difficulties put in your path to reward your conquest? Or facing challenges to restore you to health?
Regardless of your answer, remember that a cloud of witnesses is both watching and cheering you on. Don’t grow weary in resisting evil, embracing suffering, and living generously knowing a crown awaits you.