exposed

Hebrews 10:32-39; Ps 37 The salvation of the just comes from the Lord; Mark 4:26-34

"Remember the days past when, after you had been enlightened, you endured a great contest of suffering.  At times you were publicly exposed to abuse and affliction...and other times you associated with those so treated.  You even joined in the sufferings of those in prison and joyfully accepted the confiscation of your property, knowing that you had a better and lasting possession.  Therefore, do not throw away your confidence; it will have a great recompense.  You need endurance to do the will of God and receive what he has promised...We are not among those who draw back and perish, but among those who have faith and will possess life."


How much of what we do is determined by Heaven?

How much of what we do is shaped by the reward that is promised?

How much of how we live radiates the joys of the final gladness that awaits?

How do we let Heaven, that better and lasting possession, change what we cling to here and now and what we let go of?


Where is our confidence?  Where is our center of gravity for our life?

Or do we draw back?

As Jesus tells the parable in the gospel of Mark today, he mentions the Kingdom of God is like a seed that is scattered on the man knows not how  the seed would sprout and grow but  in the end the grain shall be ripe and harvested.

How much of our life is sowing seeds that we will never see to fruition?  How much of our life is setting examples for future generations not sure about whether or not it will really matter?

The bottom line it is not for us to determine the outcome but rather focus on the outcome that lies at the end and let it determine the seed that is thrown by the life that we live.

That Better and Lasting possession awaits so we grab our bag of seed and we get busy day in day out scattering those seeds, setting those examples, living the discipline life of Christ, enduring the affliction, keeping our head up and our back strong as we move forward always with eyes fixed on the prize.