The implications are clear . . . the purpose for the tour is driven home. As we leave Faith’s Hall of Fame in Hebrews 11 the “so what” is delivered without ambiguity . . .

Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us . . .    (Hebrews 12:1 ESV)

Look up, says the writer, and envision a grand, tiered stadium filled, level after level, with champions of the faith . . . those who have “been there and done that.” And see them cheering us on as those who now grip the baton and are called to run with endurance the race set before us. Look up and lay aside that which would hinder from running the race. The glow of Hebrews 11 is intended to give way to the holy determination to, by His grace, keep on keepin’ on.

But not only are we to be mindful of “so great a cloud of witnesses” but, as we run the race, we are to keep our eyes fixed upon the One who has already gained the victory on our behalf . . .

. . . looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter 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 12:2 ESV)

And as I “look to Jesus” in this verse I see a familiar phrase . . . that He is “seated at the right hand of the throne of God.” This is the fourth time in Hebrews that I have encountered this fact (1:3, 8:1, 10:12, 12:2). If repetition in Scripture is intended to emphasize a truth, and it is, then I need to consider this attribute of Jesus with exclamation points attached to it . . . Jesus is seated at the right hand of the throne of Majesty in heaven!!!!

Seated because His work is finished, our great High Priest having offered Himself, once for all, as the final sacrifice for sin (John 19:30). Seated at the right hand in order to intercede on behalf of us as we run the race (Rom. 8:34). Seated at the throne of Majesty having been exalted, bearing the Name above all names (Eph. 1:20-21). Seated at the right hand of the Father as He awaits His inheritance, when all creation will be delivered under His authority (Luke 20:41-43).

And as I’m chewing on this . . . the importance of Christ now being seated at the God’s right hand . . . something comes to mind (thank You, Holy Spirit) . . . that I am seated too . . .

But God, being rich in mercy, because of the great love with which He loved us, even when we were dead in our trespasses, made us alive together with Christ–by grace you have been saved–and raised us up with Him and seated us with Him in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus . . .    (Ephesians 2:4-6 ESV)

Seated with Him! Really? Yeah, I think that’s what it says. Running the race yet raised up and seated with Him!

Enveloped in the Victor . . . secure in the embrace of the Mediator . . . a participant in His exaltation as a trophy of His grace . . . waiting, with Him, for the blessed day when all things come together for His glory.

What position! What privilege! What a Savior!

Have a seat!