Unlike other letters in the New Testament, the author of Hebrews does not identify himself or his intended audience. However, the Church teaches that the Letter to the Hebrews was written by a friend or follower of Saint Paul; and that it was written to Jewish converts who were tempted to leave the new Christian community and return to the more traditional Jewish faith. Why? Many Christian converts were pressured by their families, friends, and neighbors. Some Christians suffered bullying, discrimination, and disinheritance. Because Christian worship was then comparatively simple, others missed the more elaborate customs and ceremonies of the temple and local synagogues. Others may have been Jewish faith leaders (and their families) who longed to regain lost influence and prestige. Whatever the reasons, the anonymous author of Hebrews begs believers to remember that the Christian faith was announced by angels, verified by witnesses, and confirmed by the miraculous gifts of the Holy Spirit.

More importantly, the author of the Letter to Hebrews reminds readers that despite our differences, all of us are ultimately brothers and sisters. We share the same human flesh and blood. And Jesus shares in our human condition. Like so many people, then and now, Jesus was born poor. His family fled their homeland in search of a better life. He walks the same streets, eats the same food, savors the same joys, and endures the same struggles and temptations. At the same time, Jesus is both fully human and fully divine. Jesus suffers like us, but unlike us, he is never defeated by life’s petty tyrannies, never defeated by human sins and shortcomings, never defeated by death itself. Indeed, Jesus does not just overcome or transcend death. Jesus defeats death! By his life, passion, and resurrection, Jesus defeats death for all time so that we can be liberated from the bondage of this one short mortal existence (Hebrews 2:14-15).

In our lives, we may endure betrayal, frustration, and deep disappointment, but these troubles do not last. We may suffer unspeakable grief, pain, and torment, but we will be delivered into eternal life by the power of Christ who came among us for the salvation of the whole world. The author of the Letter to the Hebrews reminds us that Jesus comes not to save angels, but to save us: you and me, broken, battered, sinful, wounded, warts and all. Like the ancient Christian converts, we are reminded: “Because [Jesus] himself was tested through what he suffered, he is able to help those who are being tested (Hebrews 2:18).” Jesus is tempted. Jesus is tested. Jesus suffers. Because of this, he identifies with our struggles. He understands our faults and failures. He feels our pain. He knows that life can be hard; life can be painful; life can be cut short in an instant. But Jesus also knows what comes next. And what comes next is eternal life!

We still have much in common with the ancient community of believers. We live during tumultuous times; during an era of deep division, worsening inequality, and obscene corruption. We live during a time when doing the right thing seems more complicated than ever. We live during a time when it is not cool to be a family of disciples. Given this, let us listen to the Letter to the Hebrews with the ear of an ancient faith. Let us be moved by the choir of angels. Let us be strengthened by the testimony of witnesses. Let us be inspired by the small miracles that surround us everyday. Most of all, let us stand up to the ways of the world by believing more deeply, loving more dearly, and forgiving more easily. Come what may, let us be steadfast in faith; let us remember that Jesus comes into the world not for angels, but for all of us! Amen!

Cliff Garvey
Associate Minister
Catholic Community of Gloucester & Rockport
Contact: cgarvey@ccgronline.com

CCGR Weekly Newsletter (2-2-20) 
Bringing Home the Word (2-2-20) 
Learn More: Presentation of the Lord

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Pastor’s Note
Celebrating Confirmation
Welcome, Bishop Mark!