The Full Assurance of Hope to the Very End

This meditation is based on a passage for June 6, 2011 in the Daily Lectionary Year 1 from the Book of Common Worship for the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) (1993).

Text: Hebrews 6:1-12

Reflection and Question: Similar to Paul in yesterday’s meditation, the writer here is working hard to bolster the spirits of his listeners. The central image of ground yielding a useful crop or thorns and thistles echoes Jesus’ story of the wheat and tares and the notion that the rain falls on the just and the unjust (Mt 5:45). The conclusion here is a hopeful one, which emphasizes good works in service to the saints. Faith, patience and love are the qualities that God will not overlook. These are what we need to focus upon to the very end. Who among us has not fallen away from Christ?

Prayer: Blessed Spirit, we receive from You the heavenly gift of the Word. Still, over and over we have fallen away, becoming only thistles and thorns in Your garden. Please do not overlook our work. May we have the assurance of Your hope. Amen.