Monday, June 15, 2015

Today’s Reading  |  Hebrews 4:14–16
Since, then, 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 we have one who in every respect has been tested as we are, yet without sin. Let us therefore approach the throne of grace with boldness, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need. (NRSV)

Reflection
As I write, we are in the midst of graduation season: a time when people, young and old, step into the next phase of their lives. I remember my own high school graduation; I distinctly remember some advice given to me by a dear friend and mentor at the time. Among other things, she told me, “Whatever you go out and do in the world, make sure to do it boldly. You might feel alone, but there are others who will help you and understand you. You are never alone. Especially in the church.”

Going into the world in everyday situations can be difficult. We can mistake things such as pride or vanity as boldness; we can fear being bold because of retribution; we can see boldness as something that holds us back from other things.

My friend’s advice has always come with me, even in times when I fail to practice it. That advice, like this piece from Hebrews, is the same sort of message: go boldly because we have Christ, our advocate, and because of that, we are never alone, and at some point, we will need those things. Going boldly is your contingency plan, because you will get something to help you now or in the future.

So for those of us graduating from school, a life event, or simply making it through another day, go boldly into the world as the light of Christ. You never know what might happen or what grace and mercy you might find at the other end.

Prayer
God, you are a bold God and you created us as bold people. Help us when we find ourselves timid or unwilling to accept your mercy and grace. Remind us that Christ is our advocate and understands us throughout and that it is through Christ that we step boldly into the world. Amen.

Written by Shelley Donaldson, Senior High Youth Coordinator

Reflection and Prayer © Fourth Presbyterian Church

Devotion index by date | I’d like to receive daily devotions by email