On the Mark October 4th 2009
New is Better
One of the key themes of the Epistle to the Hebrews is that Jesus is different than what came before, even that which was good. Our lesson today in Hebrews 7 describes Jesus’ priesthood as better than that of Aaron. In fullness, truth and perfection, Jesus as the Divine Son is a priest after the order of Melchizedek, superseding all others.
It is worthwhile to consider the way of contrasting Jesus with what came before Him in our lives. Of course, we often do this exercise with evil thoughts, words, and behaviors which leads to repentance and faith. I urge you to consider reflecting even on the good in your life apart from Christ and then to see Him replacing it.
An example would be to think about the goodness of our families of origin and then to contrast with them our new life in Christ as member of His Body the Church. In Mark 10:29-30, Jesus says, “I tell you the truth, no one who has left home or brothers or sisters or mother or father or children or fields for me and the Gospel will fail to receive a hundred times as much in this present age (houses, brothers, sisters, mothers, children and fields – and with them persecutions) and in the age to come, eternal life.”
Lord Jesus, You are Best and your ways are best for us. Indeed with You the New is Better! Thank you, Lord!
Christopher
The Rev. Christopher P. Leighton
Rector
Themocracy
We have a tendency to settle for things if they are good enough. The promises of God often seem too good to be true. This is a reminder that God keeps calling us to what is actually great.