Revealing Jesus’ identity as the Son of God, in the opening verses of Hebrews, would have been shocking to his fellow Jews. The book of Hebrews was written as encouragement to Jewish converts to Christianity in the early church. They would have been facing many challenges to stay true and not fall back into their comfortable Jewish traditions.
The same counsel that helped those Jewish Christians can help us today navigate all the mixed messages we encounter in this world. Jesus is God’s Son. Period. Jesus was many things, but being the Son of God was the highest honor and speaks volumes of Jesus’ identity.
Jesus became God’s voice among the people. We are given a glimpse of God the Almighty when we watch and listen to Jesus. Before Jesus came, we had prophets speaking God’s messages to the people. Those messages are still powerful, but Jesus’ life and ministry will forever change our lives.
Jesus “sustains everything by the mighty power of his command.” Why do we let fear creep into our lives when we can rely on this truth? We can look around and see a lot of hurt and tragedy around us. But what we can’t see is how Jesus stands ready to sustain us through those times of testing and trial. It’s in those moments that we need to call on the power of Jesus to rescue us and acknowledge his presence.
Jesus had a job to do. Not only did he represent God well while adorned in human flesh, but he also cleansed our sins. Jesus said in John 12:45-46, “For when you see me, you are seeing the one who sent me. I have come as a light to shine in this dark world, so that all who put their trust in me will no longer remain in the dark.” When we place our trust in Jesus, we start to see things more clearly. God’s Word begins to make sense when it used to be confusing. The darkness of our sin is removed. God’s Son, Jesus, does that for us.
What images come to mind for you when you realize your sins have been forgiven? Perhaps it’s a large pool of cleansing water or a huge eraser rubbing away the filth. Jesus’ authority to forgive has come from the Father. The religious leaders of that day had a problem with Jesus because of he was forgiving sins, and only God has the authority to do that. God’s Son has that authority as well.
How do you respond to Jesus knowing he has the authority of God, was involved in creation, and has inherited all that exists? Keep in mind that Jesus, in all his divine majesty, wants a relationship with you. Think on that today, and may your spirit be energized.
Let’s pray. Dear Jesus, help me to remember there is no one equal to you! You are God. You are God’s Son and reveal the majesty of the Father. May I truly cherish this truth. I am so very grateful that you would want a relationship with me. As I spend more time with you, help me to reflect your ways in all I say and do. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
