Living Faith

Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see. Hebrews 11:1 (NIV)

Read Hebrews 11

A little over two weeks ago, we tragically lost a dear friend of L Street Mission, Bobby. Yesterday, we held his celebration of life. In a nearly packed church, family and friends shared how he had touched their lives. There were stories of folks on the streets who spoke of his kindness and courage. Stories of how he made you feel special: When he saw you, his face would light up, and the size of his already grinning face would increase as he seized you in an embrace. 

The message was consistent in the eulogy, personal accounts, and sermon. Bobby trusted Jesus and held firm to the promise in today's scripture. Was his life perfect? No, he had his struggles. Don't we all? But Bobby remained steadfast in his faith and lived out his faith through caring and loving, even when this meant sacrificing his own life so that another might live. (John 15:12-13)

On the afternoon of the day he was killed, he gave many of us at L Street a great gift. On this sweltering day, he went around with a bottle of water and poured water on our heads. He proclaimed with his vast, enthusiastic smile, "I'm baptizing you!" In that act, each drop of water became a reminder of our baptism—a tangible reminder of our shared hope.

Hebrews 11:6 (NIV) reminds us: "And without faith, it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to Him must believe that He exists and that He rewards those who earnestly seek Him." Bobby understood this truth intimately. His life was a testament to unwavering trust—a trust that defied circumstances, hardships, and even tragedy.

Over the past two weeks, I have spent much time reflecting on my faith journey. I have asked questions like, "How can I live out my faith practically, just as Bobby did?" and "What acts of kindness can I perform to demonstrate unwavering trust?"

Gracious God, 

Lord, we thank You for the assurance that faith brings. As we reflect on Hebrews 11:1, we are reminded that faith is not unquestioning optimism; it is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see. May our lives exemplify this truth and be living testimonies to the power of faith—a faith that sustains us through trials and propels us to love others sacrificially. Open our eyes to see beyond the visible to the eternal.

Like the heroes of faith mentioned in Hebrews 11, may we cling to You, Lord, even when circumstances are challenging. May our faith be not theoretical but practical as we live out acts of kindness, compassion, and selflessness. May we cling to the promise that faith pleases You. Seeking You diligently, trusting You wholeheartedly, and living lives that honor Your name.

Lord, strengthen our hearts as we continue to serve in this community. Grant us the boldness to share the hope and assurance found in You with others. May we be remembered for our compassion,  love, and unwavering trust in You. When we come before You, may our reward be hearing You say, "Well done, good and faithful servant!" (Matthew 25:21)

In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.

Blessings,

Pastor Tim