Hebrews 12:1 in the Bible says “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.” This passage follows a list of saints and patriarchs that have gone before us as examples of what faith and perseverance really is.

Our “cloud of witnesses” can be more recent in our families, our churches and other places where we meet people of influence. Today I am reminded of my Grandfather (called him Pop-Pop) who passed away only a few short months ago and was definitely on the top tier of my cloud!

My Grandfather, Fred Lewis, has always been an example to me in my faith and how that should look. Pop-Pop though he never finished school was brilliant in his knowledge and recall of scripture. Spending many years teaching Sunday school and being involved in church leadership he was truly a student of the word. I am so thankful that he had such a candid and unencumbered way of speaking. I always knew how he felt or where he stood on a given topic. He spoke the truth in love to all of our family even if it winced or embarrassed a little! Most notably in my mind, Pop-Pop was faithful.

In some ways one might observe my Grandfather Lewis as a simple man. Simple he was, but simple in his faith. I Timothy 2:2b says “…so that we may lead a tranquil and quiet life in all godliness and dignity.” and Mark 10:15 teaches “Truly I say to you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God like a child will not enter it at all.” My Grandfather got this. His obedience to what the scripture said was childlike in that if it said it, he knew he was to do it. I never once observed him resisting or challenging the teachings of the bible, rather, he embraced it with unabashed devotion and allegiance and committed it to regular prayer.

Our church has lost 3 or 4 elderly saints recently that were icons of faith in our congregation. One of them was my Pop-Pop. These dear ones left a legacy that if we are cognizant, will follow with our whole hearts. I have to ask the question “What will be my legacy…what will my family and friends say about me when I’m gone?”

Lord give me the grace and obedience to come before you with a child-like and bold faith, just like Pop-Pop.