Hebrews 12:1 – 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. (NIV)

I arrived at work, but since we had no parking lot, I was left on my own to find a spot. I found one away across the street, but it presented me with a challenge, as I had to parallel park. In my opinion, parallel parking should not be attempted by the faint of heart, by people with high blood pressure, or by those who are vertically challenged. I fit into the latter category as I stand a quarter of an inch less than five feet. Fortunately for me, the street was one way and not busy. Armed with this information, I took up the brave task of parking.

Back and forth I went, slowly and cautiously, as I edged in one inch at a time. It took me about ten minutes to successfully squeeze in. I felt extremely delighted at my sense of accomplishment. I got out of the car, and as I did, I heard this strange commotion coming from the adjacent building. I looked up, and there in the window stood about eight students looking down at me and applauding. I was embarrassed as I realized that they had probably witnessed the whole event as it unfolded.

Like my parking experience, life sometimes presents us with some dubious and challenging situations. It may be slow going, but inch by inch, we will eventually reach our destination as we continue to persevere. Let us look up and see the great cloud of heavenly witnesses applauding us on. Let us be encouraged; we are never alone in our journey as we run the race for Christ.

Prayer: God, thank You for all the encouragement, strength, and comfort You bring to us. Your love is the sustaining force of our lives as we soar by winds of grace. We know that we are never alone. Touch us by Your presence, and help us to rejoice today, whatever challenges come our way. Amen.

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