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Furthermore, the former priests were many in number, because they were prevented by death from continuing in office; but he holds his priesthood permanently, because he continues for ever. Consequently he is able for all time to save those who approach God through him, since he always lives to make intercession for them. For it was fitting that we should have such a high priest, holy, blameless, undefiled, separated from sinners, and exalted above the heavens. Unlike the other high priests, he has no need to offer sacrifices day after day, first for his own sins, and then for those of the people; this he did once for all when he offered himself. For the law appoints as high priests those who are subject to weakness, but the word of the oath, which came later than the law, appoints a Son who has been made perfect for ever. (Hebrews 7:23-28)
Are you ready for some good news, Friend? I hope you are! Here it is: Jesus is our eternal, faithful high priest! I pray that as we spend time in prayer and Bible study that would become even more real in our lives than it already is! I ask for prayers for Elenor Ehrig, who is home now after spending the night in the hospital after a fall. She is 92 years young and needs our prayers. I ask for continued prayers for Alison Benedict as she continues to recover from surgery in Denver. Prayers for her mom, Jenice and a medical need she faced. Pray for one another and pray for yourselves.
The role of the high priest in Judaism during the times of Jesus was very important. Actually, it was very important in the Old Testament as well, but the role they played as the bridge-builders between God and humanity cannot be stated enough. It was the high priest who would offer sacrifices on behalf of the people, including himself first. The death of the sacrificial animal paid the price for the sins of those offering them. When Jesus was nailed to the cross, He became our sacrificial lamb, the Lamb of God, and He paid the price of our sinfulness. Through that act, and through God's will for His life, Jesus also became the "holy, blameless, undefiled, separated from sinners, exalted above the heavens" high priest. It is His role to save those who approach God through Him, as He always makes intercessions for us.
Think about that. Our sins, however tragic we may think they are; and some are very tragic, Jesus has paid the price, and has saved us, that is have allowed us to enter into a right and loving relationship with God the Father, through Him. We have been plucked from the jaws of certain death into life, and that an abundant, full life in Jesus. That is faithfulness!
Our job should be to tell others about that relationship we have with Jesus. Many want to know because many want to live, but don't know how. The big news today is the lotto jackpots which together are worth over $2 billion dollars. Many have bought tickets thinking that in that jackpot they will find a more meaningful life. Some in their minds and hearts have quit their jobs, divorced their spouses, and even packed their bags to see the world. The real jackpot is finding life in Jesus Christ. To find that there is a cure for guilt and shame; that One greater than us was willing to take our place in death so that we might have life. That, dear friend, is good news!
PRAYER: Heavenly Father, thank You for the things that matter most in our lives. Fill the hearts of those seeking more and thinking it can be found in money or possessions. Bless the minds of those who dream of a better life in money; reveal to them the real treasures that come from You. This we pray in Christ Jesus' name, our eternal, faithful High Priest, amen!
Have a great and blessed day in the Lord! Shower those around you with a dazzling smile and joy from your heart!
Eradio Valverde
