Aunt Pauline

Therefore, since we are encompassed with such a great cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight and the sin that so easily entangles us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us.  Let us look to Jesus, the author and finisher 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. Hebrews 12:1-2

Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it. Proverbs 22:6

For I have given you an example, that you also should do just as I have done to you. John 13:15

By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.  John 13:35

In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven. Matthew 5:16   

When Pastor Melodie called something “Pauline” in a sermon earlier this year (referring to something Paul had said in one of the letters of the New Testament), I immediately thought of the only Pauline I know, my grandfather’s sister: a lovely, vibrant woman.

The next “rabbit hole” of thought: Those ancestors who have gone before. Those Christians who have gone before.

Again, from Hebrews: 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 out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith.

Who is within that “cloud of witnesses”? Some commentary on this verse suggests those who have “gone before” us, ancestors, those of the Christian faith, anyone who precedes us. Employing my computer browser’s version of AI, it says: “The context of this verse comes from the book of Hebrews in the New Testament. It encourages believers to persevere in their faith, drawing inspiration from the examples of those who have gone before them. The “cloud of witnesses” refers to the faithful individuals who have lived out their faith and serve as an inspiration to others. The passage emphasizes the need to focus on Jesus, who endured suffering and shame for the sake of our salvation. By fixing our eyes on Him, we can find strength to overcome challenges and run the race of faith with endurance.” I also like this portion of The Message paraphrasing: “Keep your eyes on Jesus, who both began and finished this race we’re in. Study how he did it. Because he never lost sight of where he was headed—that exhilarating finish in and with God.”

I also think about those with whom we share this space in time. Sometimes when I think of who our “neighbor” is, I think of those with whom we are spending this time in history. Not just the city of Lincoln, not just Nebraska, not just the United States, but everyone in this particular time in history. It gives me a sense of connection to humanity in general! There are so many from whom we can draw inspiration and strength in faith, past and present.

I am blessed to call those family members who have gone before, like Pauline, Christians from whom I can draw inspiration, faith, and hope.

Prayer: Dear Lord, thank you for those in our lives who were/are within our “cloud of witnesses”, examples and encouragers in the faith. Help us to remember that we can serve as examples in the Christian faith to those who follow us. Amen.

Donna Gustafson

(photos below: Pauline as a child in early 1900s; Pauline (on far left) with her husband, Lloyd (far right), along with my parents, brothers, our dog Lucky. I was taking the photo! Chicken coop and old GMC pickup in the background. Click on photos to view larger.)