Friday, December 27, 2024  

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Today's Scripture
Hebrews 1:1–4

Long ago God spoke to our ancestors in many and various ways by the prophets, but in these last days he has spoken to us by a Son, whom he appointed heir of all things, through whom he also created the worlds. He is the reflection of God’s glory and the exact imprint of God’s very being, and he sustains all things by his powerful word. When he had made purification for sins, he sat down at the right hand of the Majesty on high, having become as much superior to angels as the name he has inherited is more excellent than theirs. (NRSV)

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Reflection

The metaphor “straight from the horse’s mouth” likely originated from horse racing and horsetrading. In horse racing, it refers to obtaining information directly from a reliable source, such as someone close to the horses, which would be considered more credible for betting purposes. In horsetrading, examining a horse’s teeth can accurately determine its age, providing direct and reliable information about its value. The phrase emphasizes getting information directly from the most authoritative or dependable source.

The author of Hebrews beautifully points out right away that for a long time we had been hearing from God in many ways through the prophets. But “in these last days he has spoken to us by a Son.”

Jesus is not just another prophet. He is the very culmination of God’s revelation to humanity. “He is the reflection of God’s glory and the exact imprint of God’s very being, and he sustains all things by his powerful word. When he had made purification for sins, he sat down at the right hand of the Majesty on high.”

In other words, God is speaking to us directly through Jesus. He is the very nature of God and reflects all of God’s glory and presence in, and power over, everything.

Now that is straight from the horse’s mouth.

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Prayer
God, thank you for your Word and for the author of Hebrews. Thank you for sending your Son so the world may directly see your glory and power. Amen.

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Written by Anthony Hipp, Member of Fourth Presbyterian Church

Reflection and Prayer © Fourth Presbyterian Church

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