The world of what I originally discovered as ‘talking books’ is one I have enjoyed for several years. When driving or walking the chance to listen to a book being read, sometimes excellently, is a joy. I vary what I listen to but take especial delight in revisiting the old classics. I have just revisited John Bunyan’s ‘Pilgrims Progress’.
The characters in Bunyan’s work are so often recognisable either in people I know, in myself or in what I so hope I am not. The descriptions of the journey include avoiding sin, persevering in the way and encouraging those who doubt or whose faith is weak. Bunyan’s poetic language may be dated but it still works and serves to remind the reader of great portions of the bible.
Similarly, today’s verses from Jude carry a warning, deliver encouragement and urge us to be empathetic to those who are struggling with their doubts.
Jude 1:17-22
But, dear friends, remember what the apostles of our Lord Jesus Christ foretold. They said to you, “In the last times there will be scoffers who will follow their own ungodly desires.” These are the people who divide you, who follow mere natural instincts and do not have the Spirit.
But you, dear friends, by building yourselves up in your most holy faith and praying in the Holy Spirit, keep yourselves in God’s love as you wait for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ to bring you to eternal life.
Be merciful to those who doubt; save others by snatching them from the fire; to others show mercy, mixed with fear—hating even the clothing stained by corrupted flesh.
Christian and Faithful developed a reputation for their determination, for ‘setting their faces like flint’ as they overcame the obstacles on their journey and challenged those who sought to put them off or to corrupt them.
A Prayer
Lord, there are times when I feel quite lonely as and as though I am going in a different direction from most others I meet. May your Spirit keep me faithful and give me strength so I do not give up but go on, always aiming to do what you have me do and becoming what you would have me be, for Jesus’ sake, Amen.