Be an enigma!

“Therefore God…..gave him the name that is above every name” (Philippians 2:9)

It is one of the most powerful books in the New Testament. A masterpiece of God’s Spirit. It boldly proclaims the superiority of Christ and Christianity over other religions. And it has written across its pages, ways that jar our memories of the great warriors of the faith. But let me tell you the one thing this important book does not have. It does not have an author. At least it does not identify its author. I’m talking about the book of Hebrews, and it is the only New Testament book that does not recognize who penned it. We know New Testament authors such as Matthew, Mark, Luke and John. And we are very familiar with Paul’s writings. We also have had the honor of reading after James and Jude. But this book of Hebrews, does not tell us who wrote it. An enigma indeed!

If you’re like me, you have certain people that you read after. Those who know how to speak to your heart as well as challenge your mind. And, if you’re like me, you also have certain authors that you do not read after. For me, if I can’t respect what a person believes in, they have nothing to say to me. But the bible, well, every word on every page certainly has my deepest respect and attention.

So, imagine being the vessel to be used to write a part of the greatest and most influential book in world history – but never having your name listed as a contributor.
That may seem odd. I know that many believe Paul wrote it, but without his name attached to it, we do not know that for certain. Why would God not want this individual’s name attached to the letter? What if the reason is that there something more valuable for us to learn from the author of Hebrews not being on the list of contributors of the word of God?

I believe there is a lesson for us – a very valuable lesson. Too often our egos get in the way of our walk with Christ and what God wants to do in our lives. Too often we rush to the front of the line to take credit, appreciation, and approval. Too often we look for the spotlight to bask in. Too often our names are more valuable to us than the name of Christ. Romans 8:29 tells us that “a person with a changed heart seeks praise from God, not from people.”

May we learn a lesson from the hidden author of Hebrews – whoever he was. A lesson to get our pride and ego out of the picture. A lesson to seek the least position rather than the greatest. A lesson on how to practice the joy of doing everything for the Lord’s glory, and not ours. A lesson to have our motives for all that we do, be pure. Let’s learn a lesson from the writer of Hebrews and stop tripping over ourselves. Let’s learn how to be an enigma!

                                           Darlene