Bible Readings: Hebrews 4:14-16, 7:24-25
Since we have a great high priest who has ascended into heaven, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold firmly to the faith we profess. 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. 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.
Because Jesus lives forever, he has a permanent priesthood. Therefore he is able to save completely those who come to God through him, because he always lives to intercede for them.
A Thought
Multi-tasking comes in many forms, from the one-man band with a bass drum strapped his back, cymbals between his knees and a mouthorgan fixed in front of him, to the one-man show where the same actor plays all the different parts, to the on-going debate in our home about the ability, or otherwise, of women to multi-task!
When it comes to our salvation, we have a Saviour who multi-tasks successfully.
In the Old Testament the priests would offer sacrifices on behalf of the people in order to mediate between them and God and to atone for their sins. Once a year, at the Passover, the High Priest would offer the sacrificial lamb as a reminder of the Israelites’ deliverance from Egypt. These sacrifices needed to be offered continuously since they were offered by priests who were themselves fallible.
When Jesus came to this earth, he lived a sinless life amongst his people so that, at his crucifixion, he became the spotless sacrificial lamb who was offered as a once-for-all sacrifice for the sins of the world. In this drama, where Jesus gave himself willingly as the sacrifice, he also took the part of the High Priest offering the sacrificial lamb to God. It is because of this perfect sacrifice that we can come confidently into God's presence with whatever needs or concerns we have and know that we will receive mercy for our sins and grace to help us in our difficulties.
But it doesn’t stop there. The writer to the Hebrews tells us that, having returned to heaven, Jesus is now interceding for us before the Father. Not only are our own prayers coming before God, but Jesus himself is also praying for us.
Jesus, as man and as God, is the complete multi-tasker. He is the lamb, sacrificed for our sins, he is also the High Priest who offers the sacrifice and who now stands before his Father interceding for us.
As you go about your day remember that, whatever mistakes you make, Jesus brings forgiveness and whatever difficulties you face, Jesus is praying for you.
A Prayer
Lord Jesus, I stand in awe of you. Help me to walk with you throughout this day, aware of your presence with me, your prayers for me and your forgiveness for my sin.
Amen.