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 for us. Hebrews 12:1
I love this image, being surrounded by a great cloud of witnesses in those who went before me—my grandmothers, my grandfathers, aunts and uncles, my father and great grandmother, all of whom, I know, loved God with all of their heart. To know that they surround me as I struggle, with my eyes on Jesus, to reach that heavenly peace comforts me.
Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Hebrews 12:2-3