December 18 - Hebrews 4:14-7:28

Good morning everyone,

Today we read about Jesus the Great High Priest, what that means. In antiquity, the Jews depended on their high priest to represent them before the Lord. Right? He was the one who interceded for them before God. He alone entered the Most Holy Place and only once a year, to offer the blood sacrifices for the atonement of their sins. He was an important part of their relationship with God, but, get this …. but at the end of the day, the Jewish High Priest was just as human as everyone else.  

The writer of Hebrews tells us that Jesus the Son of God, who conquered death, is our Great High Priest and that He is able to empathize with our weaknesses because He has been tempted in every way, just as we are, yet he did not sin. Showing us that we have the power to say, “NO!” when then the enemy tempts us, seduces us with his beautifully wrapped, oh wouldn’t this be fun, gee just one time, wicked ways. 

We are encouraged to boldly approach God’s throne of grace with confidence any ole’ time we want, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need. Unlike the high priest of antiquity, Christ is always at God’s right hand, 24-7 interceding for us. He is always available to hear us when we pray, but approach with respect because He is our King.

I rather image it was hard for the Jews, the Gentiles too, but especially the Jews to make the transfer of putting their trust in a high priest they could physically see to a High Priest that they could not see but merely go on faith. Hebrews 11:1 says, “Now Faith is the substance of things hoped for; the evidence of things not seen.” Friends, life is a battle field with the enemy lurking, prowling about, capitalizing on every opportunity to shatter your confidence, your will. What keeps me going and I am sure what keep you going, as well, is our faith in God. When we purpose to keep our eyes on the Lord, we can keep on keepin’ on through anything no matter how horrific. If we keep His promises in mind, His presence is always with us. Make sense? His powers are our powers, and we can rest in His wisdom and strength. Imagine the weight that was lifted off the shoulders of those Jews of so long ago when they finally quit offering, spilling the blood of, bulls, goats and other such animals on an alter and put their hope, their faith in the blood of Christ.  

I love the peace that total faith in God allows us. Jesus said; "Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you, not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.” I would encourage you to take whatever is causing you heartache and pain and drop it off at the cross, because faith in God and allowing God to do the work can change any situation. Our Great High Priest can part waters, close the mouths of lions, heal the terminally ill, bring the dead back to life and so much more. He wants to help you, He is waiting for you to give it up to Him. Do it now, feel the warmth of His love and the peace that surpasses all understanding. Jesus loves us, this I know. For the Bible tells us so. Amen?

Have a great day and to God be the glory.

God bless you all …..