A few thoughts on Proper 28 Year B

Community and mutual encouragement.  This week’s lesson from the book of Hebrews emphasizes holding fast to our hope by considering how we might inspire one another toward love and good deeds.

The early Christians to whom the Book of Hebrews was addressed faced difficulties: persecution, doubt, and the temptation to abandon their newfound faith for the familiarity of old traditions. Recognizing this, the author offers a heartfelt appeal: “Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for the One who promised is faithful.” The emphasis is on us, highlighting that faith and perseverance are not solitary endeavors but communal ones.

Hannah endured deep personal anguish due to her inability to conceive—a pain exacerbated by societal pressures and misunderstandings (including being misunderstood by Eli).  Hannah poured out her soul in prayer, and her faith led to the birth of Samuel. Individual struggles can have profound communal implications. Hannah’s faith and perseverance would bring forth a leader who helped shape the destiny of a people.

In the book of Hebrews, we are encouraged to hold onto hope and “consider how to provoke one another to love and good deeds.” The word “provoke” suggests a deliberate effort to inspire and motivate each other. A call to active engagement, timely and necessary, in a world that often feels fragmented.

In the aftermath of a devastating storm (homes were damaged, lives were disrupted, and the future seemed uncertain), amidst the chaos, neighbors came together—sharing meals, offering shelter, and rebuilding homes. It wasn’t just about physical restoration but about rekindling hope through shared efforts. Each act of kindness became a beacon of light, illuminating the path forward for others. Mutual support can transform despair into hope.

Jesus speaks of impending difficulties—wars, earthquakes, famines—and emphasizes that these are “the beginning of the birth pains.” This metaphor suggests suffering, while also pointing to the emergence of something new. Birth pains precede new life; thus, amid turmoil, there’s the promise of a new creation.

Navigating these “birth pains” in our lives involves embracing the communal encouragement. When faced with personal or collective hardships, the support of others makes all the difference. Shared prayers, attentive listening, and offered shoulders to lean on provide needed strength—the strength needed to persevere. Mutual support fosters resilience and reinforces the bonds that hold communities together.

The faithfulness of God is the foundation upon which our hope is built. Hannah trusted despite her despair; we are called to trust when the way forward is unclear. Trust is nurtured and sustained within the community. Doubts may overwhelm us alone, but we remind each other of past faithfulness and future promises.

Community is countercultural in contemporary society.  Individualism is more highly valued. Yet, history and spiritual traditions show that communal bonds are a source of strength. The early church thrived because believers met regularly, shared resources, and supported one another spiritually and practically.

The call to not give up meeting together but to encourage one another, especially as challenges intensify, is urgent. This urgency reflects an understanding that as difficulties increase, so does our need for mutual support. Small gestures—like a phone call, a shared meal, or a note of appreciation—can profoundly effect someone’s life. A tangible expression of the mutual support that can sustain us through challenging times.  Don’t underestimate the power of a casserole.

Embracing mutual support is not just beneficial but essential. Holding tightly to hope, grounded in faithfulness, and being intentional about encouraging one another can strengthen the fabric of our communities. By not neglecting to connect—in various forms of fellowship and shared service—we uplift and support each other, especially as we navigate the complexities of our world.

Like Hannah, we may find our journeys enriched by the communal bonds we nurture. Our communities can become beacons of hope, reflecting the love and encouragement that uplift us all. Embracing this approach fosters resilience, cultivates compassion, and builds a foundation upon which individuals and communities can thrive despite their challenges.