The Daily Office for February 4, 2012
Scriptures
Psalm 75
Genesis 24:28-51
Hebrews 12:12-29
John 7:14-36
Reading (Hebrews 12:12-29)
Reflection
Beginning in verse 14 of our reading today the athletic theme of this chapter is dropped and the focus is no longer on endurance but rather holiness. The word "strive" (Gr diōkō) used here literally means to earnestly pursue. In other words, the pursuit of holiness isn't something that just happens to us; it's a great treasure that we are to persistently and eagerly chase after.
Holiness, like faith, is a crucial part of every believer's life. Without faith we cannot see God; without holiness we cannot please God. Before we were saved we were unrighteous and were slaves to sin Romans 6:17-20. At salvation we become free from sin and we're now slaves to holiness Romans 6:18. This radical change should become apparent shortly after our salvation, for one is not and cannot be a slave to two masters. As we serve the Author of our salvation and daily discover the joy that only He can bring, it is foolish to look back with any type of longing for the things we were slaves to in the past, for these only bring sorrow and death. It's only through Jesus Christ that we are given eternal life and true freedom.
Collect for the Day
God our creator, who in the beginning commanded the light to shine out of darkness: we pray that the light of the glorious gospel of Christ may dispel the darkness of ignorance and unbelief, shine into the hearts of all your people, and reveal the knowledge of your glory in the face of Jesus Christ your Son our Lord, who is alive and reigns with you, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.