As I approach the New Year, I am reminded of the words of the writer of the Letter to the Hebrews, “Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight and the sin that clings so closely, and let us run with perseverance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus the pioneer and perfecter of our faith…” (Hebrews 12:1-2a NRSV).
A lot of people who have gone before me have helped me and inspired me to reach this point in my pilgrimage. They have cheered me on and still do. The journey continues into the future. Jesus Christ, the pioneer who set out before me is the One who calls me forward toward fulfillment. I'll lay aside the weights and all that clings to me and slows me down so that I can run with perseverance. At such a moment in his life a half-century ago, Malcolm Boyd asked, "Are you running with me, Jesus?"
I've thought about that prayer for a long time and have decided that it is a good one to offer every now and then. If he's not running with me, I may be on the wrong track!
God, help me stay on the right track in the New Year.
I’ll see you in Church!
The Very Reverend Ronald D. Pogue
Interim Dean
St. Andrew’s Cathedral
Jackson, Mississippi
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