Believing against all odds: Holding On even When God seems Silent. (Hebrews 11:32-40).

 

Dear Sisters and Brothers, Peace and Love Jesus Christ be with you all !

As we begin this new week, the Word of God draws our attention to experiences of Faith. As we know, in today’s world, standing firm in faith is not easy. The simple words, “I believe”, carry weight, responsibility, and, at times, suffering. We live in an age where faith is tested on every front: personal struggles, financial hardships, the loss of loved ones, the seeming silence of God in moments of distress, and the hostility of a world that no longer values the Gospel. We remember the Word of Jesus when he said: “When the Son of Man comes, will He find faith on the earth?” This question remains a wake-up call for Christians in this polarized world.

Perhaps you find yourself asking: Is my faith worth it? Where is God when I need Him the most? If these questions have ever crossed your heart, know that you are not alone. The saints, prophets, and martyrs before us asked the same questions. And yet, they persevered. Not because they saw immediate answers, but because they trusted the One who holds eternity in His hands.

Heroes of Faith: A Faith that Endures

Today’s reading (Hebrews 11:32-40) reminds us that faith is not about immediate victory or earthly success, it is about trusting God even when everything seems to fall apart. The passage recalls men and women who faced unimaginable trials: Gideon, who doubted God’s presence among the Israelites, but still led them to victory (Judges 6-8). Barak, who lacked confidence but obeyed God’s call (Judges 4-5). Samson, who made grave mistakes but found redemption in his final moments (Judges 13-16). David, who was anointed as king but spent years fleeing for his life before seeing God’s promise fulfilled (1 Samuel 16-2 Samuel 5). The prophets, who were rejected, persecuted, and even killed for speaking the truth. All these stories highlight how challenging faith is.

The writer of Hebrews tells us that some “quenched the fury of the flames” (like Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego in Daniel 3), while others “were put to death by the sword” (like the prophet Isaiah, who according to tradition, was sawed in two). Some experienced miraculous deliverance, while others died without seeing the fulfillment of God’s promises in their lifetime. This is the reality of faith. It is never in vain.

The Struggle of Faith in Today’s World

Today, we may not face lions' dens or fiery furnaces, but our faith is tested in different ways:

       When prayers seem unanswered, and we wonder if God hears us.

       When suffering feels unfair, and we question His goodness.

       When the world mocks Christian values, and we feel out of place.

       When we try to live righteously but see the wicked prosper (Psalm 73:2-3).

Faith does not mean that we will always understand God’s ways, but it means trusting that He is working even when we don’t see it. It is believing that, even when God seems silent, He is still present. Faith is not about having all the answers; it is about clinging to God in the midst of questions.

Faith Looks Beyond This World

Hebrews 11:39-40 reminds us that the heroes of faith did not receive the full reward of their faith in this life. They were waiting for something greater—something that we are now part of in Christ.

Jesus Himself told us:
“In this world, you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world” (John 16:33).

Our faith is not in material success, in perfect health, or in a life free from pain. Our faith is in Christ, who endured the cross for our sake (Hebrews 12:2). It is in the eternal kingdom where every tear will be wiped away (Revelation 21:4).

A Call to Persevere

To believe today is challenging. But let us remember that

       Faith is not measured by how much we understand, but by how much we trust.

       Faith is not about never doubting, but about never giving up.

       Faith is not about seeing results now, but about walking forward even when the path is unclear.

So, if your faith is being tested, hold on. If your prayers seem unheard, keep praying. If your soul feels weary, lean on the One who gives rest (Matthew 11:28). You may not see all the answers today, but like the heroes of Hebrews 11, your faith will not be in vain. God is faithful, and He will complete the good work He started in you (Philippians 1:6). Brothers and sisters, stay strong. Keep believing. The best is yet to come. “The one who stands firm to the end will be saved.” (Matthew 24:13)

Prayer of Strength and Endurance

Lord, in moments of doubt, be our assurance.
In times of suffering, be our strength.
When the world challenges our faith, remind us that we are surrounded by a great cloud of witnesses (Hebrews 12:1).
Help us to walk by faith and not by sight (2 Corinthians 5:7),
Until the day when our faith becomes sight, and we stand in Your presence forever.

Amen.🙏🙏🙏