All tagged sin

The book of Hebrews begins by reminding us of the importance and supremacy of Jesus as God's only Son. He's greater than the prophets, angels, Moses, Joshua, the Old Covenant priesthood, and His grace is greater than the Law.

We're also reminded how Jesus' message and ministry was and is superior to the high priesthood of the Old Covenant—as an eternal High Priest like Melchizedek. Jesus is the mediator of a better covenant—relationship with God—and in His continuing ministry as our High Priest, He is personally involved in our faith and life as believers.

How can we know if a promise is trustworthy? People make promises that are often more like intentions than true promises. We might "promise" to call someone or pray for them later, but we say promise as more of an assurance of our intention than a true commitment.

Politicians, sales people, and even entrepreneurs make lots of promises, but if we're wise, we only accept these promises with a grain of salt. There always seems to be a loophole, excuse, or contingency that gives them a way out of making good on their promises.

A promise is only as good as the person who makes it. Even then, it's only reliable if the person has the capacity or power to keep their promise.

When my family was young and I was a young father and pastor, finding a quiet time and place to study could be a challenge. As my children grew older, when I was in my small study at home, they understood I was at work on my messages for the church.

But it was different for the younger children, as my wife pointed out many times. They could burst into my little study anytime they wanted. Later, my church office staff learned that when my wife called, she had priority over who was in my office or what I was working on.

The Lord helped me see this is the access we have Him, even when we're older. We can burst into the Lord's presence whenever and whatever the need.

The door is never closed to the Father's presence for those of us who know Him as our Father. He always has time for us and gives us His full attention.