“And what more should I say? For time would fail me to tell of Gideon, Barak, Samson, Jephthah, of David and Samuel and the prophets,” Hebrews 11:32
The writer of Hebrews spends the entire 11th chapter talking about the faithful actions of the saints who had gone before them, all the way back almost to the beginning of time. But here in verse 32, it appears the writer runs out of time and just lists names. The Hebrew people who told the stories of their ancestors in the faith over and over and repeated them to their children would have easily been able to recall the stories of Gideon, Barak, Samson, Jephthah and the others. Reminding themselves and their descendants that those who came before them lived faithful lives, even in the midst of struggle and suffering, helped them to continue to live faithful lives even in the midst of their own struggle and suffering. While the people in this list aren’t included in Jesus’ family tree (only David is listed in Matthew 1), this list reminds us that there are stories of faithfulness in each of our families, stories worth remembering, retelling, and sharing with the next generation as encouragement as we strive to live faithful lives as well.
As you gather with family and friends this Advent and Christmas season, which stories of your own faithful ancestors do you want to make sure your children and grandchildren hear and know? Be sure to share those stories with them this year.
Prayer: God of the generations, we thank you for stories of faithful people, related and unrelated, who maintained their faith even in difficult times. Remind us to share those stories with others as we wait for the coming of the Christ child once again. Amen
Kathryn McGregor