14. Therefore, since we have a great high priest who has ascended into heaven,[f] Jesus the Son of God, let us hold firmly to the faith we profess. 15 For we do not have a high priest who is unable to empathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are—yet he did not sin. 16 Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need. Hebrews4:14-16
The author speaks a language these early believers understood when he talks about a high priest. They knew well the job of the high priest was to present the people and their sins to God, offer a sacrifice and beg for mercy. They ruled from earth, sometimes with very little sympathy for the people. Often, they required more of the people than was possible in obeying all their 600+ rules But, the Great High Priest, Jesus, rules from heaven, after having lived among us and experiencing every problem we face, even the ultimate sacrifice, death for our sins!! Thus, He is the only High Priest who truly understands us. We can freely, with great confidence, bring our needs to Him because He knows exactly how we feel and how to help us!
We are often told how our trials and temptations can become a source of encouragement to others facing similar issues. We can accept that our struggles and victories will encourage others, and yet often overlook the fact that Jesus struggled in His human form just as we do and His victory over death is the ultimate encouragement and example to follow. We forget the huge price He paid, not only in death, but in life on earth! He wasn’t born mature. He climbed trees, scraped His knees and caused problems for His parents. He knew hunger, rejection, had to escape for His life and knew great disappointment. He understood sorrow at the death of a beloved friend, and great joy at the wedding of another. He was tested and tempted and had to depend on his Father for strength. He knew the struggle we sometimes face in surrendering to the Father’s will. All this to become our “wonderful, merciful Savior, and perfect High Priest who understands and sympathizes with our humanity. He is the only one who can meet all our needs according to His riches in glory.
Jesus, thank You for the price You paid that we might know the Father and be able to spend eternity in heaven! Thank You for your great mercy and grace extended to us when we are confused, rebellious, stubborn, or lacking in spiritual graces. We know You are not there to condemn us, but to call us to faith and victory over our struggles. Your grace is sufficient to meet all our needs. Your mercy is everlasting, and Your forgiveness is ever present when we need it. You are an awesome and perfect High Priest who loves and understands us completely! Hallelujah!
Journey with Joyce 