A double-edged sword cuts both ways. It slices as it goes down and as it comes up. This text talks about the word of God: sharper than any double-edged sword. There is both confession and comfort here. There is confession about how God's word uncovers us. Nothing is hidden from God. That can seem harsh and vulnerable. But that same sword cuts as deeply and sharply in giving us God's Son Jesus. As much as we are revealed, we are also comforted. As much as we are laid bare, we are also given grace. As much as we are judged, we can also approach the throne of grace with confidence.

Some of us are really good at dwelling in guilt. It can weigh on us and hold us back--even cripple us from living well. Jesus, our great High Priest, offers grace and mercy in greater measure than our guilt. That grace and mercy cuts as deep as--indeed, deeper than--any guilt or judgment.