March 23rd Reflection by Bill Lynch

Hebrews 4:14-5:4 (NRSV)
Jesus' priesthood surpasses Aaron's
Since, then, we have a great high priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus, the Son of God, let us hold fast to our confession. For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who in every respect has been tested as we are, yet without sin. Let us therefore approach the throne of grace with boldness, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need.

Every high priest chosen from among mortals is put in charge of things pertaining to God on their behalf, to offer gifts and sacrifices for sins. He is able to deal gently with the ignorant and wayward, since he himself is subject to weakness; and because of this he must offer sacrifice for his own sins as well as for those of the people. And one does not presume to take this honor, but takes it only when called by God, just as Aaron was.

Reflection
Jesus is our High Priest. Jesus knows exactly what it is like to be human. He knows the temptations, the pain and suffering, the joy, the tears and he knows all the range of emotions that we go through. Jesus knows sin even though he did not sin. So, in this knowledge, Jesus has presented our case to God for our forgiveness. Jesus even became the sacrifice, himself, for our sin.

So much more than just the high priest, Jesus is God and man. Jesus is Spirit and man. Jesus is Creator and the man.  Jesus is truly God and truly man. Jesus has passed through heaven and earth. Jesus is our High Priest according to the order of Melchizedek.

I like a bit of information from from the Dead Sea Scrolls 11 QMelch that portrays Melchizedek as a heavenly being who will bring salvation and judgment at the conclusion of the final jubilee. In other literature Melchizedek is referred to as the one that brings the baptismal waters and one who gathers and emits light. Jesus is this and so much more. Jesus is our High Priest who saves, gathers, and lights the way for all creation. Thanks be to God!

Prayer
Jesus, my High Priest, my Light, my salvation, truly human and truly God, lead me and light my path this day that I may love other's as you have loved. --- Amen