"Now the main point of what we are saying is this: We do have such a high priest, who sat down at the right hand of the throne of the Majesty in heaven, and who serves in the sanctuary, the true tabernacle set up by the Lord, not by a mere human being." (Hebrews 8:1,2)
The Book of Hebrews continues to expand on the supremacy of Christ's priesthood. In the priesthood, select individuals served on behalf of the nation, seeking to bring reconciliation between God and man. In Himself, Christ served as the ultimate High Priest, becoming a guarantor of a better covenant. Unlike the human priests, Christ carried out His work in the heavenly realms and has "sat down at the right hand of the throne of the Majesty in heaven." Importantly, Christ has finished His work -- through a once-for-all sacrifice.
For the Old Testament priesthood, the covenant brought only temporary appeasement of God's wrath. As a result, the sacrificial system continued day after day, year after year. The Lord Jesus Christ triumphed by His sacrificial death, at which point God tore the Temple's curtain in two. No longer would there need to be a sharp divide between God and His followers. Those who have trusted in Christ have complete access to the throne of God's grace, as Christ has opened wide the doors.
"Perfume and incense bring joy to the heart, and the pleasantness of a friend springs from their heartfelt advice." (Proverbs 27:9)
Proverbs often celebrates the wonderful blessing of friendship. Our friends shape and sharpen us. As members of Christ's Body, we benefit from having brothers and sisters who also identify with Christ. Those relationships can give life and encourage our continued growth in Christ.
In order to build great friendships, we will do well to invest greatly in friendship. Listening and caring about others' situations will help us to show this "pleasantness." We can never really give "heartfelt advice" until we have "felt" for another person in our heart. We vulnerably welcome others into our hearts in friendship, seeking to grow together.
For which friends could you give thanks today? How could you appreciate and celebrate them and God's provision?
Lord God, thank You for the surety of the new covenant in Christ. Help us to understand Your fullness and purposes in Christ. Give us practical ways to love others as friends and to grow together. We thank You for Your friendship and concern for us. In Jesus's Name, amen.
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