This Sunday is designated as Heritage Sunday. As we approach All Saint's Day on November 1st, it is an opportunity to reflect on the heritage that has brought us to where we are today; the cloud of witnesses referred to in Hebrews 12:1. Most of us who have faith in Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior came to that place through the leading of someone else. This may have been a family member, a friend, or someone that we didn't even know previously; but the invitation to faith is most often passed on to another from someone else. It is a heritage.
Proverbs 3:1-24 picks up on this reality, though it is not specific to our faith in Jesus Christ. The author is attempting to pass on wisdom and advice to the next generation. He is naming things that he desires that his child not forget. He names the importance of love and faithfulness (3:1-2). He encourages us to trust in the Lord and submit to His path rather than our own (3:5-6). He encourages us to honor the Lord with our wealth (3:9-10). All of these and more contribute to a heritage that is passed on from generation to generation.
As you consider our heritage of faith; reflect on these questions
in a time of silence, through journaling or in group dialogue.
1. Beyond material things, what has been passed on to you? How has this been significant for your faith and from whom did you receive this heritage?
2. Part of our heritage is often the realities of shortcomings and failures as well as successes. Are there shortcomings in the heritage you have received? If so, what are they and how have they influenced who you are for better or worse?
3. In what ways are we intentionally passing on our heritage to the next generation? In what ways could we be more intentional about passing this on?
May Jesus richly bless you in this week ahead, leading you in His kingdom purposes. Amen
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