Fourth day of Lent
Alone No More
And great crowds followed him.  Matthew 4:25

Today I am reminded of another Bible passage, Hebrews 12:1-2.  "Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight and the sin that clings so closely, and let us run with perseverance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus the pioneer and perfecter of our faith."

The Christian faith is personal, but not private.  I believe, but I do not believe alone.  When Jesus began his ministry, great crowds soon began to follow him.  They were drawn to him, especially because of his healing touch in so many lives.  This eventually led to the healing he provides for all of us by his death on the cross.  Physical healing?  Yes, often this occurs in our lives.  But even more importantly, spiritual healing.  By faith we receive forgiveness and a relationship with God that lasts forever.  This good news spread from Jerusalem to the ends of the earth.  Crowds of people have followed him for over 2000 years, and crowds still follow him today.  I'm part of that crowd, and so are you.  Today we all have the opportunity to follow Jesus and have our lives touched by him.  And together, we all have the opportunity to share this good news in word and deed with a world that continues to be so desperately  in need of healing.  We don't do it alone.  We are surrounded by a great cloud of witnesses.  In that I find tremendous hope.