It was a gorgeous Thursday morning at the end of July. We met in the shade of the garden at Lake Forest to discuss a business opportunity. Would I put my entrepreneurial hat on once again? I wanted to get to know Perry Carroscia better because he would be the key. The business model already seemed irresistible.

But before long we found ourselves sharing about the people in our lives—our dads and wives and kids and church. We talked about 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.” We lingered at the cross, amazed by the love. We discussed where Jesus is right now. How his “session” provides day-to-day, transcendent assurance and peace. We lost track of the time.

As we hustled across the parking lot I thought to myself, “What an amazing, solid person—I’d love to start a little company with a guy like this.” My business wheels were spinning in high gear.

It was not to be. Perry was taken to the hospital the very next day.

This morning hundreds of admirers will gather at our church to remember Perry. To celebrate his life. His faithfulness. His multi-faceted example.

Instead of becoming a business partner, Perry has joined the “cloud of witnesses” that surrounds me. Remembering his faith in action will motivate and inspire me for a long time to come. Is this true of you, too?

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, 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 12:1-2 ESV

Perry Carroscia has finished his course, and he did it well in every category–especially with his wonderful, amazing family. His wife, Stacey, and their three kids, ages 11, 13, and 16 have suffered an unimaginable loss, yet they are solid in their faith. They face some challenging times ahead. If you are wondering how you can help, consider this idea: CLICK HERE.

Today the business opportunity I was so excited about now seems small, unmotivating and uninspiring. James 4:13-15 rings in my ears. Picking up a project feels like a weight . . . and dust.

There is a different weight I want to pursue instead. A better weight. You can read about it in 2 Corinthians 4:6-18. The Carroscia family has this in clear focus because they are confident that “he who raised the Lord Jesus will also raise us with Jesus, and bring us . . . into his presence.” Perry will be missed but only for a while.

The eternal weight of glory is at hand. And it’s beyond all comparison.