28 January 2021

Let us hold fast to the confession of our hope without wavering, for he who has promised is faithful. And let us consider how to provoke one another to love and good deeds, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day approaching.
Hebrews 10:19-25, NRSV.

Having assured his readers of the wonderful hope that Christ’s sacrifice has achieved, the writer of this letter to the Hebrews now wants to give his audience some encouragement to make use of all the ways in which they can come close to God. One of the ways he emphasises is the community meeting which he notes is being neglected by some. Perhaps there were those who stayed away for fear of persecution or others whose initial enthusiasm had waned. Whatever their reason, they are reminded that their attendance is important since it is the place where mutual encouragement of love and good deeds is to be experienced – they cannot go it alone.

• • Why does the writer emphasise the importance of the community gathering together? 
  • When have you experienced the support and encouragement of a faith community?

At this time when many are unable to gather in person within their faith communities due to the Covid pandemic, pray for the efforts of all who seek ways to unite and encourage their communities.