Hebrews 11 conludes its “Hall Of Faith” — a recitation of the many biblical characters who, ironically, did not “receive what was promised” despite a lifetime of obedience — with these words:
“the world was not worthy of them.”
What a thought: that we as God’s people might construct lives of such radical, counter-intuitive obedience that the world in which we live becomes “not worthy” of our presence.
I believe Hebrews’ point there is that the world, when confronted with such people, tends to spit them out: “they were stoned; they were sawed in two; they were put to death by the sword. They went about in sheepskins and goatskins, destitute, persecuted, and mistreated . . . “ (Hebrews 11:37).
While I certainly don’t long for such an end, I’d love to become a “world not worthy” person.
What might that look like?
Give to God’s work not simply out of abundance but to the point of sacrifice.
That’s world not worthy.
Spend more time in communion with God than being entertained by ESPN.
That’s world not worthy.
Expand the territory of our friendships to include people across the spectrum of cultures, colors, and economic conditions.
That’s world not worthy.
Spend Friday nights with Room In The Inn.
That’s world not worthy.
Help a refugee family get settled in Charlotte.
That’s world not worthy.
Let someone who is missing from God know how you got found by Jesus.
That’s world not worthy.