Hebrews 10:19 - 11:40

Sorry for not writing my last post, I was getting over sickness and taking care of a sick toddler, who I am grateful to say is on the mend.

Hebrews is one of my favorite books and chapter 11 is one of my favorite chapters in all of scripture. Some call it the "Hall of Faith". When I read this chapter, I can't help but be amazed and inspired. All of the people are such normal people, such screw-ups, and yet they were known for their faith, their trust in the One who is worthy and keeps His promises. They believed even though they didn't know what was going to happen. They followed even when it meant great personal sacrifice.

What I take away from this chapter is two-fold. One, I know the rest of the story. They didn't have the whole story, and yet they believed. I have more of the story- I can read and know Jesus. He is the part of the story that they were waiting for- the perfecter and finisher of their faith, of our faith. So, with a fuller understanding of the story, I can put my faith in something more concrete-I can call the Messiah by name. I am so thankful that I live on this end of history.

Second, I don't have to be afraid of death. Even if something horrible happens to me, I can have confidence that the event is not the end. I have an eternal hope in the death and resurrection of Jesus. His sacrifice means that I can now defeat death and be ushered into the kingdom of God as a daughter.

Does this chapter strengthen your faith  and give you hope as well?