06-23-21

ECCLESIOLOGICAL ETCHING
June 23, 2021
Scripture: Hebrews 10:23
Let us hold fast to the confession of our hope without wavering, for he who has promised is faithful.

Thought for the Day: Imagine receiving an invitation to what sounds like an extravagant party at the home of an individual you do not know. When you arrive, you are told by the person who answers the door that you cannot enter because the shirt you are wearing is too ugly. You sort of liked the shirt, yet because you wish to attend the party you ask if you can run home and change. You are told that you had one shot and you failed. No party for you! As you are leaving, someone else approaches the house and sees you looking gloomy. When the person learns what has happened, she just shakes her head and says, “I’m the owner the house and that idiot doesn’t even live here.” At that moment, you are not only escorted into the house with great fanfare, but the owner of the house compliments you on your shirt.

Ok, this is Bruce’s oversimplified explanation of the Book of Hebrews, and specifically the hope to which we hold fast. Most every religion has created gatekeepers who have taken it upon themselves to create an explanation for why you are not welcome in God’s house or deserving of God’s love. Gatekeepers are control freaks and spiritual vampires who suck the life from any sort of spiritual experience. They can give all sorts of very religious sounding explanations for why you are unacceptable, quoting the holy and irrefutable book of party etiquette. The only problem with these gatekeepers is they do not own the house and were not even hired by the person who does.

In a sort of fun and wonderful way, the Book of Hebrews seeks to tell the reader that no matter what others might be telling you at the door, the only person who matters is Jesus. His life, death and resurrection are your signed invitation. And he will vouch for you no matter who asks. Don’t let the gatekeepers leave you thinking you are unwelcome. They don’t own the house, and the one who does is thrilled to see you.

Prayer: You have provided us confidence in the gift of Jesus Christ. May his life be for us the perfect counter to anyone who seeks to belittle and exclude in your name. Your message has forever been Good News, and in spite of every gatekeeper, you continue to find new ways of allowing your love to welcome us. Thank you! Amen.

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