Read Hebrews 11:32-40.
Today, we celebrate day #3 of Advent! The text is one that might be familiar to many of us. Growing up, I came to know Hebrews chapter 11 and the beginning of chapter 12 as the texts that describe the “Heroes of our Faith”. This recap of those who are indeed heroes has served as an encouragement in my teenage and adult years. But, it’s quite interesting that chapter 11 ends by saying that when these great men and women died, they still hadn’t received what had been promised to them. At first glance, that doesn’t sound too hopeful. But, as we have heard during a few messages at GCN this year, we shouldn’t put a period where God has placed a comma. The chapter rounds out telling us that it is “since God had planned something better for us so that only together with us would they be made perfect”. It just hit me that the fullness of God’s promise to them includes… us!!
Somehow, it is in God’s perfect plan for heroes like Gideon, Samuel, and David be made perfect with folks like 21st century GCN’ers and believers all over the world. As imperfect as I may feel in the Light of God’s Glory, Hebrews 11 tells me that through Jesus, I can hold my head high in the company of all the saints who have gone before me.
The chasm between our imperfection and God’s Holiness was bridged once and for all over twenty centuries ago. This unconceivable miracle began quietly and in the most unassuming manner. Jesus entered this earth as we all did. He was with us then and He has been with us through every victory and gut-wrenching moment this year. He will be with us until we assume our rightful place next to the heroes of our faith.
I grew up hearing Michael Card played a lot in my house. During this time of year, I remember powerful lyrics from my favorite song of his, paraphrasing Matthew 1:23 –
“Our God is with us… Immanuel!”
Challenge:
Take a few minutes today to name (either in writing or prayer) at least one way you have experienced Jesus “with you” this year- in both the victories and the gut-wrenching moments.
Written by Nehemias Iglesias
