A very special list was revealed to us close to 2000 years ago. Those honored with a mention on the list have demonstrated heroic faith in the face of great adversity. They have lived as foreigners and nomads here on earth; their eyes ever fixed on the City of God. Of them it has been said, “They were a gift of God to our world.” They have left a lasting legacy of greatness wrapped in true humility. To be on this list is to be in the company of Abraham, the father of faith, and of Moses, amongst the greatest leaders of all time. It is to share a place next to Daniel, for whom the mouths of lions were shut, and his three best friends who danced in the fire with the Son of God. It is a seat next to Joshua, quite possibly the greatest conqueror in history—a true servant of God, and many who have obtained a good testimony through faith. It is a place of honor.
Some believe the list was closed 2000 years ago, but surely the list has been growing since then —ever so slowly—with the likes of Paul, possibly the greatest missionary theologian in the history of the Church. John, who by faith was privy to a documentary of things yet to come, most surely also had a glorious induction. I dare say there have been a few additions every century; some whose names are known only to their Savior. I have no doubt the list will continue to grow until Christ returns. This century the list may well include the likes of Billy Graham and others, but a new name was surely added this very day. Monday morning, the 19th of May 2020 another hero of the faith entered eternity. In the midst of such a glorious cloud of witnesses, there is a new member of the Faith Hall of Fame. I am not certain whether the induction will occur right away or if Ravi will be given some time to soak in the glory and majesty of his Lord and Savior. I would venture to say that Thomas will have a few words to say at the induction since Ravi is yet another fruit of his labor of love. And so, Hebrews 11 continues to be written in the annals of heaven.
An important clarification is necessary for the inductees to be at ease with the honors bestowed upon them. Each and every member of this most cherished of lists understands fully that all of the glory and honor belongs eternally to Jesus Christ, their Lord, their Savior, and their friend; they would have it no other way. As it has been throughout the ages, those who are left behind celebrate as we mourn. We celebrate his homecoming and mourn the loss for the Body of Christ. Ravi’s impact for the Kingdom is as unforgettable as it is immeasurable. Today he heard the precious words he so earnestly desired to hear, “Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master’s happiness!”