The Perfect High Priest
July 26, 2024
About 4 years ago I became friends with a public defender. It took some time, but I was finally able to ask the question I have always wondered. What was the hardest part of doing your job? The answer was interesting: “Defending someone when every fiber in you knows they are guilty, you’re not defending their innocence, you’re trying to find a way around their guilt. That job brings a lot of disgust!”.
In the book of Hebrews, the author focuses on the superiority of Jesus Christ as the High Priest, who intercedes for us before God. This paints a portrait of a divine mediator, emphasizing essential qualities that should bring hope and comfort to our hearts.
Jesus, as our High Priest, perfectly fulfills our deepest needs. He is holy, untainted by sin, and blameless, without a single fault or blemish. These things make Him the ideal mediator between humanity and God. He ensures our prayers and petitions are received with pure acceptance and understanding.
Also, Jesus is set apart from sinners, not because He is disgusted by us or our behavior, but because He alone bridges the gap between God and mankind. He stands in the gap, extending His arms, embracing us in our brokenness and leads us towards reconciliation with our Father.
As the verse declares, Jesus is exalted above the heavens, having triumphed over death, and ascended to the right hand of God. This celestial position grants Him the authority and power to advocate for us, offering grace and mercy in our times of need. He doesn’t have to look for a loophole.
In times of weakness or doubt, let us remember that we have a High Priest who intimately understands our struggles and flaws. Through Jesus, we can confidently approach God’s throne of grace, knowing that His holiness overshadows our imperfections, and His love covers our shortcomings. Take heart, be bold, draw near to our Defender and Advocate, our perfect High Priest, find solace and strength in His unwavering intercession.
Tim Strait
’81 / ’99 Middletown NY
Doris Jean H
’44 / ’55 Manheim PA