Thoughts for the Day

Benediction

Now 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, working among us that which is pleasing in his sight, through Jesus Christ, to whom be the glory for ever and ever. Amen.

(Lectionary, New Revised Standard Version)

Thoughts

So we come to the end of the first week of Passiontide, which will continue as we follow the movements of Jesus next week in Holy Week. Our scripture reading comes from the Epistle to the Hebrews - a letter included in the Church canon (agreed scripture) by Eastern churches in the 2nd century, but not until the 14th century by the Western churches. Neither can we say with certainty who wrote it, though we can say that it was written to an established community of Christians. The letter is very different to others in the New Testament, and concentrates on the role of Christ as our High Priest and our permanent mediator. The verses above come from the end of the letter and should help to keep us spiritually strong as we move with Jesus through the harrowing events to come.

For 40-odd years ago, like many clergy, I have spent time looking for special prayers to close an act of worship. This glorious prayer from Hebrews, with the words of the Blessing or the Grace added afterwards, is a wonderful way to close a special Service. But even more importantly it has so much 'theology' packed into it. Just look at the first four phrases:

1. God is the God of peace - when we set our hearts on Him, He brings peace.
2. God the Father's will brought Jesus back to life - He offers us life as well.
3. Jesus is the Good Shepherd - He leads us and gave His life for us, His sheep.
4. Jesus introduces a New Covenant - through this new agreement we can be reunited with God.

These phrases lead on to the wish that we will then obey God and with the help of Jesus live a life that is pleasing to God.

May the Father’s hand
keep you from stumbling,
the footprints of Jesus
give you confidence to follow,
and the fire of the Spirit
keep you warm and safe
in your walk with God this day.
Amen.*

* Unknown author