Surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us . . . run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith.

— Hebrews 12:1-2

Each year, our church community holds a solemn celebration. We set up tables at the front of the church and place unlit candles on them. Church members come forward with photos of loved ones who have died. One by one, people approach the microphone, announce the name of a loved one, and light a candle. Sometimes they also share a story.

We’ve lit candles for grandmothers who died of natural causes, young men killed on the streets, babies lost to miscarriage, and loved ones taken by overdoses. Each name carries a story; each candle represents a life that touched ours.

God’s family includes not only we who are living right now but also the many who came before us and who have gone on to eternity. They live on in the stories we tell, and it’s important to stop and remember them.

In Hebrews 11 we find many examples of people who make up the “great cloud of witnesses” who have gone before us. All of these examples encourage us to walk in faith.

We all do well to pause and remember: Who came before you? Who inspired you? Who are the people for whom you are grateful, knowing that God sent them to be part of your faith journey? Take a moment to name them and to thank God for each one.

Father, we thank you for all who have gone before us, paving the way with faith and sacrifice. May their legacy inspire us to walk humbly and serve others, reflecting your love and grace. Amen.