Our discussion on the priesthood continues in today’s reading. Jesus has stepped up as our high priest. He was appointed by God because he was in the right family. What used to be the job of a man, a mere mortal in the line of Levi, is now our Lord’s. Had the old way not been flawed, God wouldn’t have fixed it. Even God looks out for ways to be more efficient in helping his people. The saying, if it’s not broke, don’t fix it. Well, the system was broke and God sacrificed himself to fix it.
Again, our author is helping the people to understand the immensity of what is happening here. He quotes the words of Jeremiah to compare the old and new covenants. Again, God saw a need for a new promise. Times had changed and so had people. It was time for God to make all things new. He sent his son and when “God speaks of a “new” covenant, it means he has made the first one obsolete. It is now out of date and will soon disappear.” God’s change was huge!
I’ve had times in my life when I thought I was going down one road only to be veered either gently or abruptly into a completely different direction. It’s those times that get my attention. I almost need to stop and ask, “What just happened?” It’s also neat to look back on my life and see where God has been at work. Change can be hard. It can also be a blessing.
The old “Footprints” poem comes to mind here. I see times He carried me. I see all the times I veered off course. Who rescued me back from getting into deep water? Jesus took my hand. The words from God speaking through Jeremiah, “I will put my laws in their minds, and I will write them on their hearts. I will be their God, and they will be my people.”
Never had God left my side even though I had left His. I know that really doesn’t make sense, but I think you’ll understand. When I think of friends and loved ones who are stepping away from the love of Jesus, I pray for them that they don’t get in water above their heads. I pray for them to reach out to grasp Jesus’ hand before it’s too late. God’s promise is there for all of us, “And I will forgive their wickedness, and I will never again remember their sin.”
There is nothing so horrible that we have done that God can’t forgive if we confess and believe. I feel peace about this. In the end, it’s up to God on who and what he forgives, but if you’re like me –I’m a sinner in need of a Savior. I stand ready to let Jesus lead my life once and for all. He has a much better destination in mind for me than I could have imagined. I just have to believe so we can get there together.
How is God working in you right now? Are you struggling wondering if he is carrying you or not? Maybe you’ve taken him by the hand so that he can lead you along his path. At last.
Reread verses 7-13. Let God speak to your heart. This new covenant makes the old obsolete. Our promises are fulfilled in Jesus and our future depends on him. He is our way to eternity.
Let’s pray. Lord, thank you for all those times you’ve been patient with me when I have rushed on ahead of you. Thank you for loving me so much that you wouldn’t let me totally get lost. I pray for those who are lost now and apart from you. Open their eyes to see you. Open their hearts to accept you. If you can use me in any way, give me the words and the opportunity, and the wisdom to recognize. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
