We may allow ourselves to make two observations about our text in Hebrews. First, there are the names of faithful people who demonstrated their service to God that is profound. Second, regardless of all else, none of those mentioned saw the object of their faith. In other words, this good report about them did not include rhyme or reason for promised results to come or even the reason for what God was asking of them. It’s one thing to have an understanding for why we are struggling in our lives. It is quite another thing to be faithful without that understanding.
Regardless of what anyone understands, there is a bigger plan that is God’s. That means what is happening on the spiritual realm is often something that is mysterious to us. Just because we don’t have the in-depth knowledge that God has does not mean he doesn’t have a plan. In fact, it might mean that he cares so much that he allows us to be involved in his purpose whether we know the end result or not. As we serve Christ without the knowledge that we would prefer to have, it can be a very exciting existence living for the Almighty while doing his will. There is a time and place to face the question if we will submit to God whether we know the next step or not.
There is a broader scope of God’s intention that could have a direct effect on us even if we don’t know the end result. We would say today that God knows the big picture while we only have minuscule vision. As we serve God, there are also others who are yet to come after us. When we have passed from the scene of this life, they will pick up the scepter and be involved in our stead. The purpose of God as it works out may require a significant sacrifice. Jesus reminded his disciples that if the master was going to be persecuted, his followers certainly should understand that they too will probably experience something of that sort. If we are going to follow the example of the people whose names are in this chapter of Hebrews, then we must be like them and set aside what we believe is important.
In every battle there are casualties. In every dedicated service there is a natural requirement for sacrifice. As we serve God without understanding the full gamut of his plans, it is a benefit for us to realize that whatever we do in his behalf makes us a part of God’s intention on earth. True believers who are dedicated to God’s service realize that the spiritual battle results in the building up of God’s followers by faith in Christ. To consider loving, as the Bible demands of us, even our enemies, is a reflection of God. It is what he expects of us. It is what he does. It is what we should do. A genuine attitude and expression of love for all those around us can only be described as godly. The people mentioned in Hebrews are a resounding choir inviting us to join their sacred allegiance without knowing about tomorrow’s details.
Christian Writer 