Author: Sister Laetitia Therese , O.C.D.
Do you ever feel completely exhausted on every level- physically, emotionally, and spiritually?
The Letter to the Hebrews that we have been reading in the Church’s liturgical cycle since the First Week in Ordinary Time was written for such an audience. These early Christians had begun their journey of faith with fervor and great dedication, “not yet resist[ing] to the point of shedding blood (Heb. 12:4)!” However, now the author finds them grown tired and on the verge of giving up hope. This whole beautiful letter gives much encouragement for continuing to persevere. Some insights include:
“[Jesus] shared in [blood and flesh] that through death He might destroy the one who has the power of death, that is, the devil, and free those who through fear of death had been subject to slavery all their life… (Heb 2:14-15)”
“… since we have a great high priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus, the Son of God, let us hold fast to our confession. For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who has similarly been tested in every way, yet without sin. So let us confidently approach the throne of grace to receive mercy and to find grace for timely help (Heb 4:14-16).”
“We must consider how to rouse one another to love and good works. We should not stay away from our assembly… but encourage one another, and this all the more as you see the day drawing near (Heb. 10:24-25).”
“Since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us rid ourselves of every burden and sin that clings to us and persevere in running the race that lies before us while keeping our eyes fixed on Jesus, the leader and perfecter of faith (Heb 12:1).”
For the times when we grow tired, may we remain firmly rooted in the truths of the Word of God, the Scriptures. Let us find ways to intentionally add beauty, truth, goodness, and unity to our lives and may we always find our rest and restoration in the Sacred Heart of Jesus.