For we do not have a high priest
who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses,
but one who has similarly been tested in every way,
yet without sin.
So let us confidently approach the throne of grace
to receive mercy and to find grace for timely help.
For whatever reason, perhaps the wars in Ukraine and Gaza, perhaps the election year, perhaps my own habitual pessimism, I've been feeling oppressed as we observed Lent and approached Easter. But, as we celebrate Good Friday and settle into the silence of Holy Saturday, I find the above passage from Hebrews reassuring.
He is not "unable to sympathize with our weakness." He knows, he understands. Even from the cross to which our sins have nailed him, the One who is like us in all things but sin, understands and feels our foolish helplessness in the face of sin.
It's not just the present temptations and constant harassment of the world which would buy, sell, trade, and waste the only life we're given. It's also the massive history of sin which we inherit and leave to our children. Can anyone say the world is better for their having been here?
But we accept the Scripture's many assurances; we may confidently approach the throne of grace. It was God the Father who sent his son to save us; and neither the Father, nor the Son, nor the Holy Spirit can fail. As enormous as our sin with its history and scope might be, so far -- and far more -- is the Mercy of God.
Our very presence in the church's on this Good Friday, and the demonstration we'll see this Sunday when many strangers appear among us, reveals that Spirit which does not quit. The Lord still gathers, feeds, heals, and strengthens us. He still teaches us to pray and encourages us to sing. We have not quit coming because the Spirit, who can raise children to Abraham from these very stones, has raised us up despite our manifest unworthiness.
This is God's gift. Our sinful past, our present helplessness, and our deficient penances teach us to accept the gift of God. It is undeserved and unearned and yet graciously, persistently offered. And who am I to refuse?
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I love to write. This blog helps me to meditate on the Word of God, and I hope to make some contribution to our contemplations of God's Mighty Works.
Ordinarily, I write these reflections two or three weeks in advance of their publication. I do not intend to comment on current events.
I understand many people prefer gender-neutral references to "God." I don't disagree with them but find that language impersonal, unappealing and tasteless. When I refer to "God" I think of the One whom Jesus called "Abba" and "Father", and I would not attempt to improve on Jesus' language.
You're welcome to add a thought or raise a question.