As I conclude my thoughts this week on the “cloud of witnesses” mentioned in Hebrews 12:1, I want to share the words of an old hymn that I came across.   I wasn’t able to find conclusive information about its authorship, but one source suggested that it was written by John Logan (1748-1788), an 18th century Scottish minister and poet.  “Lo! What a Cloud of Witnesses” beautifully captures the thoughts of Hebrews 12:1-3.  The author acknowledges the reality of the encouraging examples of God’s faithful ones who have gone before us, yet still keeps our eyes fixed firmly on Jesus Christ.  

Lo! What a Cloud of Witnesses

Lo!  What a cloud of witnesses
Encompass us around
Men once like us with suffering tried
But now with glory crowned

Let us with zeal like theirs inspired 
Strive in the Christian race 
And freed from every weight of sin 
Their holy footsteps trace 

Behold a Witness nobler still 
Who trod affliction’s path
Jesus, the author, finisher
Rewarder of our faith 

He, for the joy before Him set 
And moved by pitying love
Endured the cross, despised the shame 
And now He reigns above 

Thither, forgetting things behind
Press we on to God’s right hand
There, with the Savior and His saints
Triumphantly to stand

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