By Mike Hoffman, Graceland University campus minister

Indeed, the word of God is living and active and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing until it divides soul from spirit, joints from marrow; it is able to judge the thoughts and intentions of the heart. And before him no creature is hidden, but all are naked and laid bare to the eyes of the one to whom we must render an account.
Since, then, we have a great high priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus, the Son of God, let us hold fast to our confession. For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who in every respect has been tested as we are, yet without sin. Let us therefore approach the throne of grace with boldness, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need.

Living in the post-pandemic world requires us to be bold. As campus minister for Graceland University, I’m aware of the challenges which many university students face—ranging from finances and family situations to academics and mental health issues. And many of us share those same struggles. We try to stay on the path of the disciple. But sometimes our thoughts and intentions cause us to veer off course—a course we know is what God wants for us and would bless us.

Every day we need to say to God a very bold “yes.” I work to limit those things which would distract me, to obstruct my view of the possibilities of the kingdom of God on earth, how I spend my time and energy and other resources. My morning prayers seem to set the course for my day. However, sometimes my choices don’t always seem to affirm my bold “yes.”

But the promise offered in Hebrews 4:12–16 is that as we live out our discipleship through engaging in daily spiritual and missional practices, our faith and hope in Christ Jesus allows us to be bold. I am grateful that the great high priest of our faith understands and sympathizes, so we receive mercy and grace in our time of need. It allows us to approach the throne of grace boldly.

This part of the promise is tied to our community of disciples. The mercy and grace we receive in our need is almost always delivered to us through their hands and feet—the actions of others. May we as stewards of our discipleship both receive mercy and grace and offer mercy and grace to those in our community.

Prayer Phrase

“You will be enriched in every way for your great generosity” (2 Corinthians 9:11).

Spiritual Practice

Overflowing Generosity

Spend five minutes thinking deeply about how God has shared abundantly with you in very specific ways. Where do you see God’s abundant generosity in your life? Say a prayer of thanksgiving for these blessings. Now, reminded of these blessings, think about how you can bless others. In what ways can God’s abundant generosity overflow from you to others? What specific blessing will you share with another this day?

Today’s Prayer for Peace

Engage in a daily practice of praying for peace in our world. Click here to read today’s prayer and be part of this practice of peace.