Heb. 3-7

FROM THE NEW TESTAMENT

Find Maturity in Christ

Have you ever pined away for days gone by when times were simpler, and life seemed better? My wife loves to say that she was born in the wrong decade, wishing that she'd lived during the turn of the 20th century. But in our nostalgia for those "good old days," it's easy to overlook life's difficulties back then, especially without our many modern conveniences and technological improvements today.

In this week's readings, the writer of Hebrews addresses his audience's desire to go back to their Jewish traditions. And pointing back to a few important historical figures, he shows how Christ is better in every way.

Better Than Moses

On Monday (Hebrews 3), we learn that "Jesus has been counted worthy of more glory than Moses" (Heb. 3:3). While Moses was a great servant in God's house — delivering God's Law to the people — Christ is better as the Lord's faithful son (Heb. 3:4). Unlike the rebellious people Moses led through the wilderness, if we follow Jesus in faith and soft-heartedness, we'll avoid falling like they did (Heb. 3:7-19).

On Tuesday (Hebrews 4), we'll think about our rest, and consider how Israel viewed Canaan from a distance. Will we trust in God and enter that rest? Or will we fail to reach it because of disunity and disobedience (Heb. 4:2, 6)? As David spoke long ago, "Today, if you hear his voice, do not harden your hearts" (Heb. 4:7; Psalm 95:7-11).

What do you think it means that "the word of God is living and active ... discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart" (Heb. 4:12)?

Better Than the Priests

Transitioning from Moses to the priesthood, Hebrews calls Jesus "a great high priest who has passed through the heavens" (Heb. 4:14). Through his temptations, he can sympathize with us and mediate for us to the Father. And on Wednesday (Hebrews 5), we're reminded how the high priests under the Old Law had to sacrifice for their own sins (Heb. 5:1-3). But God has appointed Christ as a sinless high priest (Heb. 5:5-9), the "source of eternal salvation to all who obey him" (Heb. 5:9).

And continuing the thought, let's skip ahead to Friday (Hebrews 7), where Jesus is compared to Melchizedek, "king of Salem and priest of the Most High God" (Heb. 7:1). Though only mentioned briefly in Genesis (Gen. 14:18-20), we see that Abraham gave him a tenth of his spoils and honored him as a priest and king. And so we honor Christ today, who's a greater priest than those long ago (Heb. 7:15-25), a better mediator between God and us (Heb. 7:25), and guarantees us "a better covenant" (Heb. 7:22).

Does Christ's mediation give you boldness as you "draw near to the throne of grace" seeking mercy in your time of need (Heb. 4:16)?

Better Than Basic Understanding

But let's go back to our midweek reading (Hebrews 5 & 6), where the writer expresses his frustration over their immaturity. These Jewish believers should have been teachers of God's law by now, but instead, they were stuck on basic principles (Heb. 5:12-13). He pushes them to live with wisdom and discernment, leaving the basics behind (Heb. 5:14-6:2). He warns about the dangers of backsliding and calls them to bear fruit for God (Heb. 6:4-8). Believers can trust God to keep his word, just as he made good on his promises to Abraham long ago (Heb. 7:13-19).

How can we train our "powers of discernment" and become mature (Heb. 5:14)?

Eccl. 4-12, Est. 1-6

FROM THE OLD TESTAMENT

Ecclesiastes 4-12 and Esther 1-6 delve into the complexities of human relationships and the providential guidance of God. In Ecclesiastes 4-12, the Teacher presents a candid exploration of isolation, companionship, and the transient nature of worldly pursuits. The passage reflects on the value of unity and the importance of mutual support amidst life's trials, ultimately urging a reverence for God's sovereign timing. Conversely, Esther 1-6 recounts the story of a Jewish woman who rises to prominence in a foreign court, highlighting themes of courage, identity, and divine placement. Esther's bravery in confronting perilous circumstances for the sake of her people illustrates the profound impact of individual actions in the face of adversity. Together, these chapters invite readers to reflect on faith, resilience, and the interwoven narratives of human experience and divine purpose.

Psalm 127-129

REFLECTING ON THE PSALMS

Psalm 127-129 continues to explore themes of divine protection and community faith. Psalm 127 emphasizes the futility of human effort without God's blessing, reminding believers that true security and prosperity come from the Lord. It underscores the value of family, portraying children as a heritage and a blessing from God. Psalm 128 expresses the joy of those who fear the Lord, promising blessings for both individuals and their households. This communal perspective highlights the importance of living righteously. Psalm 129 reflects Israel's suffering at the hands of its enemies but confidently declares that their struggles will not prevail against them. Together, these psalms reinforce reliance on God's guidance, the blessings of faithfulness, and the assurance of deliverance, encouraging the faithful to trust in God's enduring care and intervention amidst adversity.

Week 45