Hebrews 10:34 34 For you had compassion on those in prison, and you joyfully accepted the plundering of your property, since you knew that you yourselves had a better possession and an abiding one. ESV
Oh the pull and push of culture as we witness the utter perversion of Christmas each year. The music, the media, the mushiness, and the merchandise – it’s sickening. Happiness is not found in stuff because there is no substance in stuff.
These people, to whom the writer was addressing, had their property plundered by others who’d decided that they had the right to do so. These people, whose allegiance was to God, stood by and watched as those whose allegiance was to the government, ransacked their houses and property and took every precious thing. They couldn’t, however, take what they had hidden in their hearts: the truth. Everything on earth and of the earth is passing – only that which is hidden away in the heart by faith is enduring; and they had it.
Persecution like this is right around the corner for us. This calls me to a heavenly perspective and a faith that won’t settle for second-best. Nothing on this earth can bring me happiness – only God can and He’s the one who said, “Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. “Blessed are you when others revile you and persecute you and utter all kinds of evil against you falsely on my account. Rejoice and be glad, for your reward is great in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you.” (Matthew 5:10-12 ESV)
Father in Heaven,
When all around me is eroding and slipping away
You’ve given me the gift of faith by which I’ll stay
Close by You forever and with You I’ll be found;
For it is by faith I stand in You on holy ground. Amen.
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