This sermon by Donovan A. Drake explores faith through Hebrews 11:1: “Faith is assurance of things hoped for.”
Preached during a baptism, it emphasizes raising children in faith rooted in unseen values—compassion, justice, sacrifice, and love.
Drake uses a Pulitzer-winning river rescue photo as a metaphor for faith in unseen acts of courage and mercy. He describes Jason Oglesbee, the rescuer—an imperfect man who showed Christ-like love in a moment of selfless action.
The sermon includes stories of ordinary people living quiet lives of faithful service, often unnoticed but deeply meaningful. Drake urges us to teach children not just about material things, but the lasting truths of hope, mercy, and love.
The message ends with the congregation reading Hebrews 11:1 together, affirming their shared faith in unseen but eternal promises.
“Now Faith”
Ninth Sunday after Pentecost
August 10, 2025
Rev. Dr. Donovan Drake
Click HERE to download sermon transcript!
Hebrews 11:1
Now faith is the assurance[a] of things hoped for, the conviction[b] of things not seen.