September 22. Let Goods and Kindred Go.

Recall the former days when after you were enlightened, you endured a hard struggle with sufferings,

sometimes being publicly exposed to reproach and affliction, and sometimes being partners

with those so treated, for you had compassion

on those in prison, and you joyfully accepted the plundering of your property since you knew

that you yourselves had a better possession and an abiding one.

Therefore, do not throw away your confidence, which has

great reward. Hebrews 10, 32 to 35. The Christians in Hebrews 10, 32, to 35 have earned the right to teach

us about costly love.

The situation appears to be this.

In the early days of their conversion, some of them were imprisoned for their faith.

The others were confronted with a difficult choice.

Shall we go underground and stay safe?

Or shall we visit our brothers and sisters in prison and risk our lives and property?

They chose the way of love and accepted the cost.

For you had compassion on those in prison and you joyfully accepted the cost. For you had compassion on those in prison,

and you joyfully accepted the plundering of your property.

But were they losers?

No.

They lost property and gained joy.

They joyfully accepted the loss.

In one sense, they denied themselves.

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