A Shot of Adrenaline

In a long-distance race, runners sometimes feel like they need a shot of something to make it to the end.

Forget about strong coffee, caffeinated soda, or a powerful energy drink; they just cramp you up.

In Hebrews 12, the writer suggests our "rejuvenation" comes in the form of recalling the agony Christ suffered prior to, and while on, the cross.

Rejection by His Own: Matthew 13:53-58 and Mark 6:1-6
Rebuff of His Teaching: John 6:66-71
Rebuke of His Identity: Matthew 9:2-6; Mark 2:7; and Luke 5:21
Rebellion by His Closest Followers: Matthew 26:14-16, 45-50; Mark 14:10-11; Luke 22:3-6; Luke 22:47-48
Ruthlessness of His Abusers: Matthew 27:27-31; Mark 15:16-20
Repudiation of the Father: Mark 15:34
Regicide in Spite of His Innocence: Mark 15:12-26; John 18:33-40

It's not just for Ressurrection Sunday. To remember His sufferings, we are reminded of His glory-past, present, and future. That is enough to make us keep running.