Music Monday: “Your Name Is Holy” by Brian Doerksen

Music Monday: “Your Name Is Holy” by Brian Doerksen

by: Debbie Waltz

From time to time recently, I’ve offered my reflections on our congregation’s study of the book of Hebrews. Specifically written for the Jewish community, this book offers encouragement and steadfast support to those who have recently converted to Christianity, helping them to remain strong and unwavering in their newfound faith.  At the same time, it also recognizes the allure of reverting to familiar Jewish customs and traditions, particularly given the oppressive religious persecution being inflicted upon the Jewish people by the Roman Empire. The book of Hebrews presents a compelling challenge to Christians, urging them to reconsider carefully their life’s priorities and to place God above all else. The author reminds them of their freedom from past legalistic constraints.

To jog your memory, here are some of the book’s discussion points.

1. 1. The Christian perspective of angels- In the Bible, we have seen how angels play an important role in delivering important messages to all of mankind. They are God’s messengers.
   2. Significant figures from the Bible, namely Moses and John the Baptist. We’ve also witnessed God’s inclusion of humans in the divine rescue plan. They were God’s instruments to implement laws instructing them how to remain in right relationship with God. (In the end, the laws weren’t what was important. It all pointed them back to God )
   3. Christian inheritance: When you believe in Christ, you inherit a new family: God’s family. Those who have faith can be sure of God’s promises.   Our inheritance is safely and securely in Him. It is incorruptible. It is undefiled. It doesn’t fade (1 Peter 1:3-5)

Despite the variety of themes, a single commonality emerges. God.  It all depends on Him. Like his earthly ministry, his main focus is our relationship with Him and the condition of our hearts. It doesn’t matter where we come from or how financially stable we are, It Is Irrelevant to Him. Jesus is solely focused on us and his mission to save us from sin while advancing His Kingdom. 2nd Corinthians 4:18 reminds us, “So we do not focus on what is seen, but what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary but what is unseen is eternal”

Pastor Chris’s sermon today was on tithing, but it wasn’t what you might expect. He said that though one tenth is mentioned in the Bible, it is often taken out of context. While this sum was traditionally bestowed upon priests and war champions back then, it is not obligatory for us today. Conversely, our relationship with God ought to inspire us to assist the church in every way possible, both financially and practically. Because we’ve been personally transformed, we ought to share the hope we’ve discovered with others. Not from a sense of duty, but of gratitude. 2 Corinthians 9: 7 says, “Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.” (NIV)

Doerksen’s song reminds us that Jesus’ sacrifice doesn’t diminish his holiness and authority. His presence continues to comfort me, even amidst life’s difficulties. God understands our suffering because He has felt it (Hebrews 4:15). May the song’s chorus uplift you as it did me.