“Remember your leaders, those who spoke to you the word of God. Consider the outcome of their way of life, and imitate their faith. Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.” (Hebrews 13: 7-8)
The writer concludes his letter by providing a list of recommendations: ‘Imitate the faith of your leaders.’ This considers not only their lives, but also their deaths. However, he then recalls another figurative image that he had forgotten to mention.
Consider the manner of Jesus’ death in the context of the Old Testament. Remembering is not just about thinking about it; it’s about following. Jesus died on Golgotha, outside the city. This is reminiscent of the Day of Atonement described in Leviticus 16. This is not a new insight. Once again, the writer portrays Jesus as the high priest. But now, he uses different words. We are to join him outside the camp, that is, in figurative terms, outside society. This is an image of uncleanness, where God’s judgement rests.
Let us follow Jesus in His humiliation. Initially, this meant being alienated. But now, thanks to Jesus, we find grace. He Himself invites us to take up our cross and follow Him.
What are your thoughts on the writer’s words? The writer himself offers a nudge in the right direction. He asks us to tolerate his admonition, and this creates an opportunity: the thirteen days you spent with this letter leave you with some sharp words. Never let yourself be diverted from the centre of faith. Give Jesus the place in your life that He deserves. Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today and forever.