Is there life after death? Christianity not only says, “Yes!” but offers a path to an eternal life of joy, peace, and ultimate fulfilment with God. Even contemporary scientific research, such as that of Dr Pim van Lommel, author of “Consciousness Beyond Life”, is beginning to demonstrate the likelihood of continued consciousness after death. The book of Hebrews offers an interesting insight into one aspect of the afterlife: the ability of those who have died to observe the life and work of the living. We read, “Therefore we also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us” (Hebrews 12:1). There will, of course, be those who see this as figurative rather than literal, but one of the first rules of exegesis is to take the data at face value, unless there is some good reason to look for a more esoteric explanation. I see no reason to look for a more subtle meaning in this case. Those believers who have gone before us are witnessing our lives and no doubt supporting our noble endeavours from Heaven. Having an encouraging audience can make a big difference. Marathon runners often speak of the value of having friends and relations to cheer them on. Remember each day that you have supporters watching you from Heaven and run the race of your life!