NEXT UP: The Next Generation Matters
The generation before us carried the banner of Christ with zeal and sacrifice. That cloud of witnesses is now counting on us to pick up that banner and run the race laid out before us.
Likewise, there is a generation following us, watching to see what our lives will declare as real and true. I love how the writer of Hebrews talked about this in Hebrews 12:1-3 (ESV).
“Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus, the founder and perfect or of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured from sinners such hostility against himself, so that you may not grow weary or faint hearted.”
We honor the cloud of witnesses when we remember their sacrifice and carry on their work, with the intent to win (1 Corinthians 9:24). The next generation is in search of reality. They need to observe us living our faith in a manner that inspires them to follow. They need to see that the most incredible adventure is the one God has prepared for them to live.
This will require us to be intentional in speaking into the lives of the next generation. It takes purposeful effort to equip the ones who will carry the banner when we no longer can. We must do our part so our children and grandchildren set their hope in God and obey His commandments.
