Same Old Same Old

In my circle of acquaintance, a question of personal welfare will often get the response, "You know: same old same old," thereby offering acknowledgment of the inquiry that the same things are happening in the same way.  His or her mundane existence has garnered no outstanding attention or activity, and life goes on as before—consistently forward.  Consistency is comforting.  People react in anticipated ways, both individually and corporately.  The daily commute is the same route, time, and distance.  Just get behind the wheel and drive.  If something goes amiss, tension and stress well up within.  We seek resolution.  Pity the poor coffeemaker that does not perform as expected during my morning routine.

So how does this work on the spiritual level?
The writer of Hebrews wanted to encourage his readers by asking them to stop and look at their spiritual history.  Beginning in chapter 11, the author lays the groundwork for his final appeal of encouragement.  Scripture is replete with examples of those who at some crucial point (or points) in life responded in faith, as demonstrated by obedience, to the revelation of the living God.  They acted on what they were told.  These people now act as witnesses, so that we now may finish the life of faith well.  There is temptation from weariness that can manifest itself in many ways, but the kingdom of God is not shaken because it is established in the finished work of Christ.  Remember all those people who have preceded you from the distant OT saints to the more recent elders.  Examine the ends of their lives and imitate what got them there.  Why?

Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever. (Hebrews 13:8)

In other words, the same God who had revealed himself to the fathers through the prophets with certain statements and promises concerning himself is the same God that will continue to carry us by the same statements and promises.  And just as those in the past had believed on those firm promises, we too are empowered to carry on under the same promises to the same future reward that past generations worked toward.  The same Scriptures which pointed to Christ continue to undergird the believer presently.  The immutable God set immutable promises established in himself that were manifested in the immutable Son of God and sealed by the immutable Holy Spirit.

Through him then let us continually offer up a sacrifice of praise to God, that is, the fruit of lips that acknowledge his name. Do not neglect to do good and to share what you have, for such sacrifices are pleasing to God.  (Hebrews 13:15-16)