Good morning, everyone.
Our verse for today is from Hebrews 5:2, “He is able to deal gently with those who are ignorant and are going astray, since he himself is subject to weakness.”
The high priest of Israel had a pretty important job. Going before God to represent the people carried a substantial amount of weight. And think about all the different kinds of people they had to deal with and represent. Some would come to them with exactly what was required for the sacrifice, while undoubtedly others showed up trying to cut corners or make a bargain with God. Maybe He would take two rabbits instead of my best sheep. Some came deeply sincere, some less so. Even we can say we’re sorry sometimes when we don’t really mean it. There were surely many who came to hear God’s Word preached who sought Him and walked closely with Him as their Lord. But others certainly came every Saturday only because they were supposed to, not wanting to endure from others the ramifications of skipping church. Know anyone like that? Now as the priest would make the offering for these people, he also was required to make offerings for himself. Despite his position with God and before the people of Israel, when he came before that altar, he had the same sinful nature as the worst of those who might have brought a lamb to slaughter. It was part of the design. The offering, the continual call for the shedding of the innocent blood of another animal, was to keep reminding every single Israelite that they couldn’t do it on their own. Even the high priest.
It was intended to keep them all aware that they were ignorant and going astray. It was to point out their helplessness before a holy God, like a defenseless lamb with a knife at his neck. It was to show them their weakness. And we are God’s priests today. We are the ones standing before God helpless and weak. So, what does that do to you? Does it make you gentle and compassionate with those around you in the same boat? Does it convict you of giving him your leftovers? Does it draw you closer to Him? Whatever it does, it should make you more like Jesus. He has surely dealt gently with us.
As we seek Him today, consider your place before God instead of comparing yourself to someone else. Remember your weakness instead of how someone else might be weaker. Deal gently, no matter who it might be.
Have a great Wednesday.
#4 Rich Holt
Dad of Ripken, Koy, TrishaJean, Samantha, Kakie Holiday and Raleigh
Happy is the man who has his quiver full of them.
