Scripture

“Pray for us; we are sure that we have a good conscience, desiring to act honorably in all things.  I urge you all the more to do this, so that I may be restored to you very soon.” Hebrews 13:18-19

Reflections

As Christians, we belong to one another.  We talk about being a part of our “church family”.  We refer to each other as “brother” or “sister”.

The writer of Hebrews was distanced from his brothers and sisters.  It is clear from his writing how much he missed them.  At that time, it would not have been an option to just send them a text or email.  Phone calls didn’t exist.  So, he sent them a long letter we now know as the book of Hebrews.  Beyond that, all he could do was pray.  But the written prayer he prayed was powerful.  “May the God of peace, who brought back from the dead our Lord Jesus, the great shepherd of the sheep, by the blood of the eternal covenant, make you complete in everything good so that you may do his will, as he works among us that which is pleasing in his sight, through Jesus Christ.” (Heb. 13:20-21)

As a people who belong to each other, our calling is to encourage one another and bring out the best of each other.  Without one another, we would be in deep trouble.  Christianity is not a “go it alone” experience.  We need one another to pick us up when we’re down.  And even if we’re separated from one another for a period of time, we can lift up each other in prayer.

Prayer

Lord Jesus, thank you for my brothers and sisters, even though we may be separated at this time.  Guard them and keep them in your care.  Grant me strength and perseverance until we are once again restored to one another.  In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Full Reading: Hebrews 13:18-25