21 January 2021

21 January 2021

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: 25-8:6 NRSV.

For some, the opening sentence of this reading is the most powerful verse in the Bible since it tells us that Jesus in heaven continues his saving work for all people and for all time. The writer yet again emphasises the superiority of Christ’s priesthood. Other priests fall short since the priesthood of Christ is never ending – he is constantly available to intercede for us with God. The sacrifice made by Christ brings a much greater reward than the daily sacrifices of the temple priests. Christ’s sacrifice made it possible for sin to be destroyed “once and for all”. As a result there is no sin that cannot be forgiven and no sinner who approaches God through Christ who will not be forgiven.

    • How does it feel to know that Christ is constantly interceding for us with God? 
    • What difference does God’s forgiveness make to you?

Pray for people who feel unable to seek or experience forgiveness.