Cloud of Witnesses

Let’s also run the race that is laid out in front of us, since we have such a great cloud of witnesses surrounding us. . . . Think about the one who endured such opposition from sinners so that you won’t be discouraged and you won’t give up. — Hebrews 12:1, 3 (CEB)

During the season of Lent, the church sets aside time for prayer, fasting, and reflection in order to grow closer to God.  Each year, we relive Christ’s temptation in the desert, his final weeks of ministry as he traveled ever closer to Jerusalem, his final meal with the disciples, and his death on the cross.  This season reminds us of our humanity and of the One who chose to take on human form to save us.  With the Resurrection, we celebrate the renewed life, hope, and joy that God, who sent Christ to live among us, continues to work with and through us each new day.

In a spirit of Lenten reflection and God’s continued work in the world, I have been sifting through our archives.  I am continually amazed by the foresight, faith, and courage of the people who have shaped and cared for this ministry over many decades. With this issue, The Upper Room begins its 85th year of publication, mission, and ministry. As a way of honoring our history and remembering the vision that has led us, we will be highlighting content from previous volumes of The Upper Room beginning with our first issues from the 1930s.  Look for the page called “From the Archives.” I hope that as you read these excerpts, you will gain a better sense of the great cloud of witnesses that has invested in this global ministry and that you will be encouraged and inspired to persevere in your journey of faith as a member of this community.