14 Seeing then that we have a great high priest, that is passed into the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast our profession. 15 For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin. 16 Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need. (Hebrews 4:14-16)
In the Old Testament the High Priest had one of the most prominent roles in Jewish Society. It was the High Priest that would wear the breastplate with the Urim and the Thummin which were used to inquire of God concerning His will for His people. It was also the High Priest, and only the High Priest, who could enter into the Holy of Holies in the tabernacle and the temple to offer the blood sacrifice for the sin of Israel on the Day of Atonement. This person had an elevated status in the nation and was placed in a pedestal, far above the common people.
Ok, enough of a history lesson. What does all of this mean for us? In our text today we learn of Jesus’ role as the Great High Priest. A casual reading through the Gospel shows us that rather than spending a life of fame and fortune, He was despised and rejected. He didn’t come to be placed far above us, but to walk among us (Philippians 2). He felt the pain of rejection andthe loss of loved ones. He was “touched with the feeling of our infirmities”. It’s not that He is simply aware of our weakness, He has felt it! And now this same Jesus has entered into the Holy of Holies, offered his precious blood for the sin of all mankind, then removed the barrier that separated us from the presence of God, opening His very throne room to you and me!
Because of this, we can come boldly before God seeking His Grace and Mercy. It has nothing to do with our merits, our good works, our pedigree or the size of our bank account. We could never give enough! We could never do enough! A King stands beside a Beggar when in the presence of God! Why? Because it is not about us…It is all about HIM! Our boldness is found in the person and work of Jesus Christ, our Great High Priest, who totally and completely understands what you and I are going through!
Today as we ReFocus our hearts and minds on Christ let us come boldly before His throne! He knows we are weak! He knows our need! He knows that we will fail! That is why He says come! All you who are weak and heavy laden! He will give you rest! He will show you mercy! He will give you Grace!