Our scripture this morning is Hebrews 12:12-15.
Therefore, strengthen the hands that are weak and the knees that are feeble, and make straight paths for your feet, so that the limb which is lame may not be put out of joint, but rather be healed. Pursue peace with all men, and the sanctification without which no one will see the Lord. See to it that no one comes short of the grace of God; that no root of bitterness springing up causes trouble, and by it many be defiled.
One of the questions people ask about the Letter to the Hebrews is “Did Paul write this?” Paul usually introduced himself but this letter goes right into the subject: in the past, God spoke through chosen prophets; this time it is His son, Jesus Christ that comes to love and lead us. The arguments are logically structured and supported, a hallmark of Paul’s letters. Does it matter? Not really, we can learn much from this, no matter who wrote it.
It is intended for people familiar with Old Testament scripture. Isaiah 35:3 tells us to “Encourage the exhausted, and strengthen the feeble” the source of this passage’s opening. We are called to minister to the emotionally and spiritually exhausted that they may be saved. God offers us salvation but it demands a human response.
This lesson teaches that we must care for others that all may be saved, so “that no one comes short of the grace of God.” This is what Jesus called us to do through the Great Commission – to make disciples of all nations (Matthew 28:19). He has left us in charge of His ministry, may we be faithful to our task.
Gracious God, we are amazed and humbled to be called as part of Your plan of salvation. Bless us to go in Your strength and love to all the world. Amen.
