"Therefore we must pay much closer attention to what we have learned, lest we drift away from it" (Hebrews 2:1).

Just what is the "it" we have heard? The message is that the Lord God appointed the Son to be the One called Jesus who would rescue humankind from their subjection to death in all its forms and free them by fully entering into their situation, experiencing all they experience in suffering and dying, and then emerging victorious with His resurrection. In doing this, He became the only One able to help those still beleaguered by the forces of death and darkness.

The proclamation of that truth (called the "Gospel") has the power to lift up hearts and raise spirits with joy. It can free from anxiety, worry, and fear and bestow the confidence and courage that comes with having hope. It is good news that supports and sustains and comforts in pain and sorrow and frees those who really hear it from all that enslaves them in hopelessness and despair.

No wonder this writer states: "We must pay much closer attention to what we have heard." One must surely conclude that the closer attention is paid, the more powerful the message will be in the heart of the hearer. To "drift away" is unthinkable.

So pay closer attention, beloved of the Lord. Never drift away. Let the message fill you, lift you up, pour its hope into your heart, and send you on your way rejoicing.

- Pastor Henry