Our scripture this morning is Hebrews 12:10-13.
For our earthly fathers disciplined us for a few years, doing the best they knew how. But God’s discipline is always good for us, so that we might share in his holiness. No discipline is enjoyable while it is happening—it’s painful! But afterward there will be a peaceful harvest of right living for those who are trained in this way. So take a new grip with your tired hands and strengthen your weak knees. Mark out a straight path for your feet so that those who are weak and lame will not fall but become strong.
Discipline is not something we tend to seek or readily accept as humans. We associate it with correction, and as the writer (assumed to be Paul) tells us “no discipline is enjoyable while it is happening—it’s painful!” However, God only tries to correct our behavior because He loves us. If we didn’t matter, He wouldn’t bother.
As our earthly families mold us to live as part of a community, so our Father in heaven molds us to live eternally. We read “God’s discipline is always good for us, so that we might share in his holiness”. God has provided us with the guidance of His word and the example of Jesus that we might learn and share His love.
This passage closes with an exhortation to “take a new grip with your tired hands and strengthen your weak knees”, encouraging us to grow in faith and go in faith to make disciples of all nations. God wants all His children to come to Him and we are all charged to spread the Good News.
Loving Lord, we are amazed that You call us to be part of the kingdom work. Bless us to go in Your name, strengthened by faith, to tell everyone of Your love for us. Amen.
