Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen. Indeed, by faith our ancestors received approval. By faith we understand that the worlds were prepared by the word of God, so that what is seen was made from things that are not visible.
All of these died in faith without having received the promises, but from a distance they saw and greeted them. They confessed that they were strangers and foreigners on the earth, for people who speak in this way make it clear that they are seeking a homeland. If they had been thinking of the land that they had left behind, they would have had opportunity to return. But as it is, they desire a better country, that is, a heavenly one. Therefore God is not ashamed to be called their God; Indeed, he has prepared a city for them.
Hebrews 11: 1-3, 13-16
Today’s reading is often referred to as the “chapter of faith.” The first verse is the definition of faith for Christians. Much of the chapter describes the faith of the great Saints of the Old Testament: Abel, Enoch, Noah, Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, Joseph, Moses, and Rahab. Most of these great Saints had serious weaknesses and sins. But their testimony is one of faith that overcomes their weakness and sinfulness. Their faith in God is greater by far than their human frailties, including being members of sinful humanity. They all lived and died in faith, which was great, and most importantly, they believed in a heavenly homeland.
Let us pray with St. Gregory:
For verily, as Peter’s open profession of faith in the Trinity
earned for him the blessed name, Rock, so in expectation of your clemency,
do I, a sinner condemned, await exoneration, O deliverer of captives.
Since everything is possible for you, O benevolent God,
hear my sighs of supplication to you.
Have mercy, save us, and be generous.
For yours is forbearance, gentleness, salvation,
atonement and glory for all time,
to all peoples.
Amen.
Prayer 13 B, C
