Eternal Hope
In our last teaching video in our 2024 ‘Surprising Hope’ series, Naomi Wolfe reflects on 2 Corinthians 4:16-28 and the eternal hope we have in Jesus.
A transcript of Rev. Mitch Forbes' reflection can be downloaded here.
In today’s teaching video Rev. Mitch Forbes reflects on Hebrews 6: 17-20 and the secure hope we have in Jesus.
In the same way, when God desired to show even more clearly to the heirs of the promise the unchangeable character of his purpose, he guaranteed it by an oath, so that through two unchangeable things, in which it is impossible that God would prove false, we who have taken refuge might be strongly encouraged to seize the hope set before us. We have this hope, a sure and steadfast anchor of the soul, a hope that enters the inner shrine behind the curtain, where Jesus, a forerunner on our behalf, has entered, having become a high priest forever according to the order of Melchizedek.
Hebrews 6:17-20 (NRSV)
Rev Mitch Forbes, Congregation Minister at New Lambton Uniting Church, reflects on the refuge of faith we have in the promises of God. He discusses how the anchor of hope we have in Jesus orientates us towards being bringers of hope for others, by pursuing love and justice.
We invite you to pray and continue reflecting on Mitch Forbes' reflection today.
Reflect:
All people seek safety and refuge. When have you looked for safety, protection or refuge in your life? Have there been particular times or particular reasons?
Have you experienced finding refuge in God through faith? What was your experience?
Drawing on Thomas Merton's words, Mitch suggests that hope is not passive but rather a state that "empties our hands in order that we may work with them." How has hope inspired you to take action towards creating a more just, sustainable, and beautiful world?
Pray:
May you know the safety and the security and the refuge of God.
May you feel like the hope of a completely renewed world is anchored in the holiest of holies and it can never be dislodged.
May that hope empty your hands and may you know what to work for.
May you work for sustainability and justice and peace and beauty and truth and goodness.
And may you believe, in the very depths of your being, that you have always been safe because God is your refuge.
Amen.
Rev. Mitch Forbes lives on Awabakal land with his wife Kristen and three kids and is the newly appointed Congregation Minister at New Lambton Uniting Church. He is a thinker, speaker, writer, pastor and regular guest on the Spiritual Misfits podcast. Alongside his work at church, Mitch runs a (semi)liturgical community called NewCity.
Connect with Mitch
