“Furthermore, the former priests were many in number, because they were prevented by death from continuing in office; but he holds his priesthood permanently, because he continues for ever. Consequently he is able for all time to save those who approach God through him, since he always lives to make intercession for them. For it was fitting that we should have such a high priest, holy, blameless, undefiled, separated from sinners, and exalted above the heavens.” (Hebrews 7:23-26)  The epistle’s author is now bringing his argument regarding the superiority of Jesus’ priesthood to a grand crescendo.  Unlike all other priests, Jesus is permanent.  He has passed through death and his intercession never ceases.  Two points stand out for me in this week’s text.  First, Jesus always lives for a particular purpose and that particular purpose is you and me.  His very life in heaven is a prayer for you and me.  He is not distracted and he never grows weary or impatient.  Instead he is praying for you and me.  And that is how we must understand the second point which spoke to me.  Jesus is “separated from sinners.”  However, even his separation from us is for us!  He did not need a little “me time” like a parent being driven crazy by their kids!  Instead, he returns to the Father so that we might be with him as well.  These points are well illustrated by one of Charles Wesley’s hymns, Arise, My Soul, Arise:  “Five bleeding wounds He bears; received on Calvary; They pour effectual prayers; they strongly plead for me: “Forgive him, O forgive,” they cry, “Forgive him, O forgive,” they cry, “Nor let that ransomed sinner die!” My God is reconciled; His pardoning voice I hear; He owns me for His child; I can no longer fear With confidence I now draw nigh, With confidence I now draw nigh, And “Father, Abba, Father,” cry.”  My prayer for you and me is that this week we will hear our Savior’s voice and with confidence draw near to our loving Father.  I never stop needing to hear that, how about you?  Are we not truly blessed, that our Lord never ceases to say it?