Some days the ways one can describe God’s calling seem endless. Multiplied descriptions and almost endless word lists can make Christianity seem complicated.
The Hebrew writer calls us back to the center–keep your eyes on Jesus, as the example and source of perseverance and faithfulness. God calls us to faithfulness. We can water it down and use different words, but the verdict of Scripture is unchanged. God’s promise is to those who persevere in hope.
I celebrate God’s call to faithfulness, because it gives me hope. God did not call me to perfection. God did not call me to performance. God calls me to faithfulness–and provides the instruction manual.
Casting off, getting rid of, shedding impediments, hindrances, burdens, and sins. Get rid of the things that entangle and cause stumbling. Get rid of the obstacles that cause fatigue and falling. Be faithful!
The Apocalyse writer summarized it: Be faithful unto death, and I will give you a crown of life (2:10).