Hebrews 4:15-16
For we do not have a high priest who is unable to empathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are-yet he did not sin. Let us then approach God's throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.
Jesus certaibly felt despair, being fully human. He lost his father and he lost his good friend, Lazarus. And he felt the despair of those who came to him in need. We don't know what it was like for Jesus to anticipate his own painful and lonely death. He certainly knew his Father loved him, but he also knew he would be put to death. Jesus knew about human pain and despair. These verses tell us that Jesus was like us, in many ways, and so we should not be afraid to go to him. When I think about going to a good friend with something that is painful to me, it is important that I believe she will understand. Jesus will understand. He already understands.
Holy Father, you have given us your Son, the perfect listener, the perfect comforter, your very self in human form. How could I ever doubt your understanding and your intentions? I am so very thankful. Amen
Becky, transforming
Friday, January 13th, 2023
Hebrews 4:15-16
For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who in every respect has been tempted as we are, yet without sin. Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need.
Jesus understands our weaknesses. He understands them because he took on human flesh in order to identify with us. He was tempted in every area just as we are. While he never sinned he is not shocked when we fail. We should work with the holy spirit to overcome our weaknesses. This is not easy, I believe…
Hebrews 4:15-16 When seeking counsel and advice, it helps to know if our counselor has “been there, done that.” Early in my pediatrics career, one question from parents always filled me with dread. “So, do you have any kids yourself?” It was immediately evident my “no” answer shook my credibility to its core. Jesus’ mercy and grace, absolution from our pit of despair, gains a large measure of its power from the fact that He has suffered far more and much worse than I could ever imagine.
Prayer - God of mercy and grace, how can I thank You for Your strength in my weakness other than by worship, praise and adoration? You have all that is mine to give…
Hebrews 4: 15-16 For we do not have a high priest who is unable to empathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are—yet he did not sin. Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.
Jesus can sympathize with me. He was tempted just as I am tempted, but He did not sin. I should follow His example as best I can in my human form. I will never despair, knowing that Jesus is always there for me willing to lend me a hand. Jesus was not exempt from our…
Hebrews 4:15–16 To be reminded that Jesus was fully human is so important. To remember that he experienced all the human emotions brings him closer to us. We know he understands our despair as he experienced it with the death of Lazarus. Jesus wept. We saw his anger in the temple and his love of his disciples. We know when we pray, we do not have to explain our needs. He knows them. Prayer: gracious God, when I turn to you, as I often do, I know I need no words. Your understanding is such a comfort. Amen