Have you
ever had second thoughts about something or someone? Ever wish you’d taken more time before you
bought the new car…or said “yes” when asked to go on a date…or accepting the
new assignment at work? When the car
breaks down or the date is a waste of time or the new assignment causes
headaches and bellyaches, it’s so easy to second guess yourself about the
decision you made.
The people
who received and read the letter to the Hebrews were having second
thoughts. They had converted from
Judaism to Christianity. The good news
of God’s love in Christ Jesus had made their hearts glad. But their decision to embrace Christ as
Savior brought derision and scorn from those who had rejected the Lord’s
forgiveness and love. They lashed out at
these new Christians in both word and deed.
For the new converts, there was the possibility of facing persecution
and even death for the faith.
The letter
to the Hebrews was designed to help the Jewish converts deal with their
doubts. However, this is a letter from
which we can all benefit. You might even want to spend some time during Lent doing an in-depth study of this New Testament book. Using the
inspired Word of God, the writer shows how Jesus Christ is the fulfillment of
all the promises of the prophets. In
times of persecution and struggle, whether 2000 years ago or today, Hebrews
teaches us that there only one Lord and Savior to whom we can place our trust. Trust in Jesus and walk with Him – there is
no reason to ever look back!
