Reading: Hebrews 10-11

Hebrews 10:39 – “We aren’t the sort of people who timidly draw back and end up being destroyed. We’re the sort of people who have faith so that our whole beings are preserved.”

Chapter 10 begins with a review of Christ’s sacrifice that was “once for all.” The writer reminds us that the Law cannot make one perfect. That’s why the priests offer sacrifices again and again. But Jesus offered himself as one sacrifice for all time, then “sat down at God’s right hand.” Because of this, declares the writer, we can enter the holy of holies with confidence, drawing near to God with a certainty of heart that comes through our faith in Jesus Christ. In turn, we can hold onto our hope without wavering, “sparking love and good deeds” amongst one another as we meet together and encourage one another.

The author of Hebrews then invites them to remember how they stood their ground when suffering. He or she implores them not to throw away that confidence, but to endure. In 10:39 we read, “We aren’t the sort of people who timidly draw back and end up being destroyed. We’re the sort of people who have faith so that our whole beings are preserved.” This is quite the “who we are” statement! Moving into chapter 11 we’re reminded that faith is the reality of what we hope for and the proof of what we cannot physically see.

The balance of chapter 11 is known as “the heroes of faith.” We’re reminded of Abel, Enoch, Noah, Abraham, Sarah, Isaac, Jacob, Joseph, Moses, and Rahab and their acts of faith. In verses 32 and 33 we get another list followed by their acts of faith in rapid succession. Lastly we’re reminded of the nameless many who were taunted, whipped, imprisoned, killed, and otherwise suffered for their faith. May we too walk in faith with confidence and trust, awaiting the day when we’ll all be made perfect in eternity.

Prayer: Lord God, in being reminded of what Christ did for us and of what that means to our faith, we find hope. In remembering these named and unnamed exemplars of the faith we find strength and encouragement. Lead us to walk with you daily, drawing closer and closer to your love. Amen.