Welcome to another enriching episode of Daily Bible Refresh with your host, Rev. Dr. Brad Miller. In today’s episode, we dive deep into Hebrews 13:7-17 using The Message version. This lectionary study provides insightful approaches to understanding, relating, and applying Bible passages in our daily lives. Here are three key takeaways from today’s discussion:

One of the central themes Rev. Dr. Brad Miller explores is the symbolic significance of Jesus being crucified outside the city gates. This act represents a rejection of the religious establishment of His time. Dr. Miller urges listeners to introspect on the insider-outsider dynamics within their own faith communities. Are we confining our faith within traditional religious boundaries, or are we willing to embrace true faith in unexpected places? This reflection challenges us to look beyond our comfort zones and see how God may be working outside the traditional norms.

Another poignant point Dr. Miller highlights is the shift from traditional sacrifices to sacrificial praise. Hebrews 13 speaks to moving away from the ritualistic sacrifices of old to a more profound form of worship—serving others and working for justice. Authentic worship, according to this passage, is less about following rituals and more about how we treat others in our daily lives. By focusing on acts of love and justice, we embody a form of worship that is radical and inclusive, mirroring the actions of Jesus.

The episode challenges listeners to take proactive steps towards inclusivity. Dr. Miller’s action step for the week encourages identifying an "insider space" in your life where others may feel excluded. This could be in religious, social, or professional settings. Once identified, intentionally engage with someone outside of that circle. This could mean sharing a meal, having a heartfelt conversation, or finding other ways to connect. By stepping outside our circles, we expand our understanding of God and ourselves and bring about transformative experiences.

As we journey through Advent, Dr. Miller recommends Experiencing Christmas by Matt Rawl. This resource helps explore the transformative impact of Jesus' birth. A link to this resource is provided in the show notes.

The episode concludes with a heartfelt prayer, seeking courage to step outside our comfort zones, transforming worship from mere rituals into acts of love and justice, and becoming agents of inclusion in our communities.

Join Rev. Dr. Brad Miller tomorrow as he continues to refresh and inspire with daily readings and reflections. Remember, God’s loyal love never runs out—it is new every morning.The Voice of God Daily is presented each day by Rev. Dr. Brad Miller who has a goal of speaking a bit of the bible into two million ears (one million people) in three years (2022-2025).

Brad served as a local church pastor for forty years and has a background in radio and podcasting. Moreover, he is a life-long student of The Bible.

He believes in the words of Jesus that “scripture is fulfilled in your hearing” (Luke 4:21)

The Voice of God Daily is available seven days a week by 6:00 am ET. The episodes are no longer than ten minutes long and include…

A reading from the New Testament (usually the Gospel) selected from the Revised Common Lectionary using a modern English translation (The Message).

A recommended resource to help you go...