Hebrews 4:12-16 (NRSV)
Read Hebrews 4:12-16 on biblegateway.com
Verse 12Indeed, the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing until it divides soul from spirit, joints from marrow; it is able to judge the thoughts and intentions of the heart. Verse 13And before him no creature is hidden, but all are naked and laid bare to the eyes of the one to whom we must render an account. Verse 14Since, then, we have a great high priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus, the Son of God, let us hold fast to our confession. Verse 15For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who in every respect has been tested as we are, yet without sin. Verse 16Let us therefore approach the throne of grace with boldness, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need.
Devotion
No one signs up for life. Life is gift. Each day of our earthly living we stand between existence in this earthly world and the knowledge of a world that is yet to come. As creatures of body and spirit we walk by laws governing our limited existence in this world and by faith that sees God’s eternal promise of life beyond this world. When we recognize we stand suspended and sustained in God's promises, we also find that we are completely known; cut open to the core by the Word of God. Through Christ our core is infused complete in God's living grace. No longer can humanity be separated from God for God is now the One who became human and indeed does sympathize with our weaknesses, and yet remains strong in his sinlessness. In this grace, truth, and promise our living is suspended and sustained. It is in this eternal relationship that we begin to understand our true essence and existence, our being human and our being grounded in the very love and redeeming love of God.
Prayer
Lord who enters in and never leaves ... Thank you. Amen.