“Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see” Hebrews 11:1
The writer of Hebrews defines faith as a confident assurance in an unseen hope. Good summary, yet a total mystery to those without faith who may find it irrational. Yet, Biblical history has proven that such unseen things are indeed real and true. Evidence of God working through His people chronicles Holy Scripture in real people and events as God carries out His promises. The life, death and Resurrection of Jesus are the best examples of this truth. It is what all the faithful of the Old Testament from Adam to Noah and Abraham to David and far beyond all looked to, and that for which they hoped. God’s people were not disappointed when Jesus appeared and declared Himself to be the fulfillment of their hope and faith.
This is also true in our day. We have the testimony of faithful Christians who have passed away in the faith who remind us that what we hope for is certain and sure. Grandma’s faith, and Uncle Ted’s hope, our neighbor Vivian and friend Harold who lived the Christian life and are now in the kingdom of heaven are encouragements to us that the Lord fulfills His promises and that our hope is not in vain.
Our faith may be in that which is invisible, but we can nevertheless see its fruits in people and events through which God’s Spirit works. This include you and me! Praise God, for He is good as you know the truths of the classic hymn…
For all the saints who from their labors rest,
Who Thee by faith before the world confessed,
Thy Name, O Jesus, be forever blest.
Alleluia, Alleluia!
Know that you are loved!
Peace and Joy!
Pastor Kilian
