Today’s scripture: Hebrews 11: 29-40 (NRSV) (The Message) (KJV) What might God be saying to me?
My thoughts (David Zier):
Freedom happens. Walls go up and walls tumble. People are saved. People suffer. Sounds like a journey of faith, despite the stories surrounding those phrases in today’s scripture. Sounds like the ebb and flow of life, but the details do matter.
Our culture is so different from the ones encountered in the Bible. We often want to be found worthy of this world, to get recognition for our achievements, and to be welcomed and honored by others. We are taught by society to be individualistic, more concerned about self than others. Growing in faith means freedom. Growing in faith means that no matter whether walls go up or down, God’s grace is always there, no matter what. Even in the dark times of life, God is with us. Faith grows.
Today’s scripture is telling me that growing faith requires a life of ups and downs. What happens will impact me in how I grow. That growth is allowing me to live into God’s salvation — moving toward wholeness, going outside of myself, and finding more peace. Isn’t that one of the things Jesus was teaching us?
Thought for the day: How are you living your salvation, your freedom?
We encourage you to include a time of prayer with this reading. If you need a place to get started, consider the suggestions on the How to Pray page.