Tuesday, November 3, 2026

Life Together: "Cheered On" (Nov 3)

 

*Photo: All-Cape Cross-Country Race at Monomoy High School (November 2, 2026)

"Cheered On" 
November 3, 2026

Peace to you.

Hope you had a blessed All Saints Sunday.

During the children's moment, I shared a story about Bob, who always shines like a star in my heart.

About twelve years ago, he was diagnosed with stage-four cancer. Bob said it was the most difficult, yet at the same time, the best day of his life when the doctor shared the news over the phone. The first person who came to mind was his dear wife, Angela. He was so concerned about how to deliver this news to her.

But while he was on the phone, he had a vision. Everything seemed to fade away, and he heard an inner voice saying, "Everything will be okay."

And it did. From that moment on, he experienced a peace that surpassed understanding. He began to see things in perspective. He had to go through all kinds of treatments and medications. Every three months, he underwent thorough checkups. After each one, he would say that he felt as though he had been given another three months of borrowed time.

In the midst of all this, Bob took every opportunity to share his faith story and the love of Christ with others, so warmly and so boldly.

About a month ago, even as his health was failing and the cancer had returned, Bob shared the Good News with a friend who was dying. His friend did not feel worthy of God's love. But Bob made sure he knew how deeply he was loved. Eventually, his friend put his trust in Jesus, and the following day, he passed away. Bob rejoiced in the God of salvation. 

Bob was a great encourager. I miss him dearly. I miss his smile, his stories, his sense of humor, and his encouraging words.

Yesterday was the All-Cape Cross-Country Race for middle schoolers, and Grace participated. After the race, she said to me, "I got off to a really good start, but after the first lap, I felt tired. But as soon as I saw you and heard you cheering me on, I was able to pick up the pace and finish strong."

It reminded me of Hebrews 12:1–2:
"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."
How encouraging it is to know that we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, cheering us on! And how comforting it is to know that Jesus, not we ourselves, is the one who begins and completes our journey of faith!

What a blessing it is to have people like Bob in our lives. They may have passed away, but their faithful lives continue to bear witness today. So today, we remember our saints and give thanks to God for their lives.

You can watch our All Saints Sunday service and read the message at the following links:
Our worship services are also broadcast on Channel 26 on Tuesdays at 1:00 p.m. and Thursdays at 3:30 p.m.

May the God of hope fill your hearts with joy and peace today as you trust in him. Love you all. 


Shalom,
Pastor Victor

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