AUGUST 7 = HEBREWS 13
DOING GOD’S WILL
And now we arrive at the final chapter of Hebrews. As we do so, the writer gives final exhortations and instructions and greetings. And, just as with chapter 12, there are so many very practical sayings that it seems each one is worthy of comment. So I will be brief in my commentary and review some of those quick sayings. Ready? Go!
- Love one another. And just as you are not to neglect meeting together, so the author says do not give up loving one another. This is how the world will know that we are his followers, you know. So keep on loving as a family.
- Also love strangers. We use the word hospitality, which has to do with housing, feeding, practical caring, and in general helping people who are strangers. Some people have found themselves to have ministered to angels, like Abraham did when a couple of angels visited him on their way to Sodom. As the Benedictines say, treat every guest as if that person were Jesus.
- Remember those in prison. Some are there for being believers. Some because of debt or because of some unfair judgment against them. Some are there for doing wrong. Remember them all. Pray for them. Think of how you would want people to remember you if you were the one in prison, and do that for those you know who are in jail right now.
- Honor marriage. Don’t be involved in sexual encounters before getting married, or with any adulterous relationships while you are married. Even widows and singles and elderly people. Honor marriage, everyone. And keep that marriage bed pure, by your speech as well as your actions. God will judge dishonoring marriage.
- Be content. Free yourself from the love of money (and of what money can do). Be content with what you have, not giving in to envy or greed. God is giving you what you need, and he will never leave you or forsake you.
- Pray for your leaders in Christ. Whoever first spoke the word of God to you, as well as those who continue to mentor you and challenge you spiritually. Give careful consideration to the outcome of their way of life, and make those same choices yourself. Imitate their faith. When in doubt, copy what you see in those leaders.
- Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever. Culture changes. People change. Time leaves a stamp on us all. But Jesus never changes. Get to know Jesus very well, and see if you can be culturally relevant and yet wholly devoted to him.
- Offer continual praise. Because Jesus remains the same, through him you can continually offer to God a sacrifice of praise. Praise is the fruit of lips that openly profess his name. Sing praise. Speak praise. Pray praise. Whatever you do, turn every moment into an opportunity to speak to God your thanksgiving.
- Do good to others. Whether they are friends, enemies or simply strangers, do not forget to do good and to share with others. There is nothing in it for you. But know that such sacrifices as these are pleasing to God. Just as we want our worship to be acceptable, we want our deeds and gifts to bring God pleasure.
- Trust your leaders. Have confidence in those who are over you in the Lord. Heed what they say, and submit to their authority, because they keep watch over you as those who must give an account. Do this so that their work will be a joy, not a burden, for that would be of no benefit to you.
- Do God’s will. The God of peace will equip you with all you need to do what God wants. He does it through the blood of the eternal covenant in Jesus. He brought Jesus back from the dead. And may that great Shepherd of the sheep equip you with everything good for doing his will.
- Do what pleases God. May he work in us what is pleasing to him, through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen.