Tag Archives: the book of Hebrews

October 27
Leave a comment
Uncategorized

“Because he himself suffered when he was tempted, he is able to help those who are being tempted.” (Hebrews 2:18, NIV)

Empathy = “‘Been there. Done that’ (and reaching back to help others traveling the same road).”

The cost of empathy is always a personal one, which is why it resonates in a way that “informed” but “inexperienced” advice and presence cannot.

As the architect of humanity, Jesus was certainly informed of the human condition; but without becoming fully human Himself, it is like being the designer of a house, but never living within the house of one’s own  design. Living in the human condition is different than being informed of the human condition.

When you endure hardship, know that there is One who has walked in your shoes Who is able to help you live through the difficulty; and also know that you are becoming the one who, like Jesus, is able to empathize with others in their distress.

Empathy is a gift.  – Luther

Tagged , ,
October 25
Leave a comment
Uncategorized

“In the past God spoke to our ancestors through the prophets at many times and in various ways, but in these last days he has spoken to us by his Son, whom he appointed heir of all things, and through whom also he made the universe. The Son is the radiance of God’s glory and the exact representation of his being, sustaining all things by his powerful word.” (Hebrews 1:1-3a, NIV)

As followers of Jesus, it it good to be reminded Whom it is that we are following, lest we acquire ideas about the person or the purpose of Jesus that are both unscriptural and unsupportable.

Ask an architect about a structure she has designed, and she will be able to speak to every detail of its form and its function.

The words of Jesus resonate as they do in human experience because it was through Him that the universe was created. In other words, He is its architect.

The longer and the closer one follows Jesus, the more one comes to appreciate the work of God.  – Luther

Tagged , ,
July 7
Leave a comment
Uncategorized

“Now that we know what we have — Jesus, this great High Priest with ready access to God — let’s not let it slip through our fingers. We don’t have a priest who is out of touch with our reality. He’s been through weakness and testing, experienced it all — all but the sin. So let’s walk right up to him and get what he is so ready to give. Take the mercy, accept the help.” (Hebrews 4:14-16, The Message)

If you believe that asking for help as a sign of weakness, you’re right! It is a sign of weakness.

Knowing our true state, God has provided the example of His Son — tested in every human situation, and having passed each test with a perfect score; and He has provided His own spirit to give us the inspiration and the power to succeed. 

Trouble and trial stalk us like prey. “Take the mercy. Accept the help.” – Luther

Tagged , , ,
← Older posts
Newer posts →