9 June 2022 Our Lord Jesus Christ the Eternal High Priest
For it is clear that he (Jesus) did not come to help angels, but the descendants of Abraham. Therefore he had to become like his brothers and sisters in every respect, so that he might be a merciful and faithful high priest in the service of God, to make a sacrifice of atonement for the sins of the people. Because he himself was tested by what he suffered, he is able to help those who are being tested.
From Hebrews 2:10-18, NRSV
Today we celebrate the recently (2018 England and Wales) instituted Feast of Jesus Christ as the Eternal High Priest. The role of priest was first conferred on Aaron, the brother of Moses. Priests were responsible for making intercession to God for the people by offering daily sacrifices. One priest was selected as High Priest. His role was to enter the most holy place once a year on the Day of Atonement to place sacrificial blood on the Ark of the Covenant as a sign of reparation for the sins of the people. The regular sacrifices made under the Jewish Law could not remove sin whereas Christ, through his death and resurrection, took his place as High Priest at God’s right hand from where he intercedes for his people whose sins are forgiven. The author emphasises the reason why Christ was able to be a merciful and faithful high priest – in becoming fully human Christ understood trials and suffering and could therefore help those being similarly tested.
- Why did Christ choose to experience human suffering?
- How does it feel to know that Christ intercedes for us with God?
Pray for all who share the priestly ministry of Christ in bringing others nearer to God.
