Trusting the Unknown, Living the Promise
A short reflection on Hebrews 11:1–3, 8–16 and Luke 12:32–40
In today’s readings from Hebrews and Luke, we are invited to re-examine our understanding of faith. The scriptures challenge us to see faith not as unchanging belief but as an open, evolving trust in what is unseen.
We are reminded of Abraham’s courageous journey – a path marked by uncertainty yet propelled by a hopeful call to a promised future. This dynamic vision contrasts with a rigid belief that offers certainty at the expense of growth.
In Luke, the call to remain watchful and ready to receive God’s kingdom reaffirms that faith is not about amassing secure attachments but about opening our hearts to transformation and possibility.
Both texts underscore that while our earthly circumstances may seem bleak or stalled, the call to trust persists: to live anticipating a better, inclusive future and to respond to life’s uncertainties with both gratitude and accountability.
Two lessons emerge for us today.
First, let our faith encourage us to embrace uncertainty with courage, recognising that trust in God can guide us through the unknown.
Second, remain alert in everyday living – tending to our hearts and our community, so that even in a seemingly unchanging world, hope and justice continue to flourish.
Ngā mihi
Philip
p.s. Worship leaders: You can buy a complete Order of Service and Sermon based on these readings here: https://philipgarsidebooks.com/products/worship-at-hand-pentecost-9-10-aug-2025