Daily Devotions
Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith. Hebrews 12:2
The Olympic torch symbolizes the spirit of the Olympic movement – international friendship, national pride, and the pursuit of athletic excellence. Setting goals, developing determination, and sharing support through the torch relay contributed to the Olympic spirit. The runners held high the torch across America, and when Rafer Johnson ignited the permanent Olympic torch in the Los Angeles Coliseum, the games began with high spirits.
As Christians we are called to hold high the torch of our Lord Jesus Christ. Hebrews describes us as running the race surrounded in the stands by all the great heroes of the faith who have gone before us. We are to throw off the weight of our sin and run the race with determination. But the focus of our running always rests on Jesus: “Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith.” Jesus went joyfully to the cross for us and was raised to the right hand of the Father.
Far from seeking glory or fame, we lift high the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ for all to see. Saved by His death, we set our life’s goals to serve Him. Relying on His promises, we develop determination to run the race. Surrounded by the fellowship of believers, we give support to all who alongside of us bear witness to Christ’s love. In the darkness of a sinful world, hold high the torch!
PRAYER: O Lord, may I lift high Your cross so others may see You and Your great love for us. Amen.
(Devotions from “My Daily Devotion” by Dr. Stephen J. Carter, copyright 1988 CPH. All Rights Reserved. No part of this publication may be printed, reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted, in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, without prior written permission of Concordia Publishing House. Permission is granted for one-time emailing of this link to a friend. For ordering information, please contact CPH at 800-325-3040 or visit www.cph.org.)