Faithfulness through the Generations: The Passing of the Torch of Faith
Hebrews 12:1-2
“Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also 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 perfecter 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.”
Eugene Peterson taught me to walk slowly, that I might truly know and be known by my God and my parish.
Billy Graham taught me how to proclaim the gospel to all creation. He reminded me to think always of those who cannot call on Him in whom they have not believed, who cannot believe in Him of whom they have never heard, and who cannot hear without someone preaching.
Reinhard Bonnke taught me that this gospel belongs to all the nations.
R.C. Sproul taught me that right theology matters. He helped close the gap between Sunday school and seminary, teaching me that God is bigger than I knew, my sin is more deeply rooted than I imagined, and the grace of God in Jesus Christ is overwhelming.
The Lord has been faithful to my generation, sending prophetic, priestly, and kingly fathers in the faith to increase faith and understanding, and to spur on the good works of the church.
And then he brings them home.
And suddenly we are holding a torch that we didn’t realize it was our turn to hold, and we are called deeper into dependence on our perfect Father, as he takes from us our earthly fathers in the faith.
I pray that we can honorably serve the next generation as our church fathers have served us.
Lord, make it so. Amen.
