"For the word of God is living and active and sharper than any double-edged sword" (Heb 4: 12).
When I was in seminary, I sometimes didn't like being reprimanded by the formators - especially when they used sharp words. As a young boy who was lazy and undisciplined, those formators used to advise me with the Word of God. Honestly, at that time I was a little hurt because it bothered me a bit.
However, because of the Word of God, I have experienced many changes in my life. Much of the Word of God that they expressed continues to stay in my heart even now.
Some people do not like to listen to the Word of God, especially the verses that rebuke sins and command people to change just because it hurts so much. Often people who proclaim the truth of God's Word become victims.
The Word of God is stronger and sharper than a double-edged sword because it is alive. So if someone, whoever that person is, delivers the truth of God's Word even when it is very painful and offensive because of rebuking a sin, do not harden your heart (verse 7). We should be grateful to get the Word because it is a sign that God loves us and wants us to change for the better. God's Word is useful and necessary for growing our faith, especially for those who hear it and live it.
God wants us to enter into the heavenly glory he provides. So, we must accept the word of God, practice that word in life, and welcome every verse with a gentle heart and be ready to be shaped by it. Importantly, don't forget to be grateful! If God's word is delivered by someone, and it sticks and hurts our hearts, it is because at that time God asks us to repent and become a better person. Amen.
Reflection on Hebrews 4: 1-12 by Father Risco Batbual, SVD.
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