Posted on: 19th March 2026

Hebrews 12 verses 1 to 2 [New Living Translation NLT]:
Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a huge crowd of witnesses to the life of faith, let us strip off every weight that slows us down, especially the sin that so easily trips us up. And let us run with endurance the race God has set before us. We do this by keeping our eyes on Jesus, the champion who initiates and perfects our faith. Because of the joy awaiting him, he endured the cross, disregarding its shame. Now he is seated in the place of honour beside God’s throne.

I live in Otley, just north of Leeds. Many of you will know that for many years, from 2 weeks before Easter until 2 weeks after, a wooden cross is erected on the hill south of the town - Otley Chevin. My turn to write a blog comes 2 days before it will go up again!

The cross on the hill is clearly visible from most of the town and beyond. On Good Friday at midday, and Easter Sunday morning at 7am, public worship is held there. People gather from near and far to share those times. During those 4 weeks many like to go up to spend a little time at the cross and take in the beauty of the place from which there is an expansive view of the town and panoramas of countryside beyond. And looking the other way we see the airport, Yeadon, Guiseley and beyond into Leeds.
Where the cross is positioned on the hill is called ‘Surprise View’ – hence the title above.

When the cross is there, we look up and are reminded of Jesus and all that He has done for us on the cross of Calvary. The verses from Hebrews above give a little cameo of such a wonderful act for our salvation and remind us to ‘keep our eyes on Jesus’. And they also remind us that many, in pre-Christian days, foresaw what was coming.

Sometimes I like to think the other way up - I mean a thought that our Saviour is looking down on the town from Surprise View. Now, of course, we know that his place of viewing is the throne room of heaven, from which he looks with understanding. Hebrews 4 verses 16 to 17 [NLT]: This High Priest of ours understands our weaknesses, for he faced all of the same testings we do, yet he did not sin. So let us come boldly to the throne of our gracious God. There we will receive his mercy, and we will find grace to help us when we need it most. Reflecting on this brings thanksgiving for his loving heart for all – our great High Priest and King.

And he is praying there. Hebrews 7 verses 24 to 25 [NIV]: Because Jesus lives for ever, he has a permanent priesthood. Therefore, he is able to save completely those who come to God through him, because he always lives to intercede for them.

Why not come and take a look at the ‘VIEW’ on Chevin Hill. You might be ‘SURPRISED’!!
 

Blog by John Simkins for March 19th, 2026 – Otley Prayer Network