Leading the Way

“In the days of his flesh, Jesus offered up prayers and supplications, with loud cries and tears, to the one who was able to save him from death, and he was heard because of his reverent submission. Although he was a Son, he learned obedience through what he suffered; and having been made perfect, he became the source of eternal salvation for all who obey him, having been designated by God a high priest according to the order of Melchizedek.” (Hebrews 5:7-10)  We continue with the case for the superiority of Jesus’ priesthood.  Several things stand out.  First, we see his complete identification with the human plight.  In the midst of his suffering, he shouts and cries.  He is heard but he is not spared.  And so he enters into the travail of those who know and love God, but nonetheless must walk the path of suffering.  In this way, he completes our broken humanity (he is made perfect).  One could think of this passage as a tale of two gardens.  My temptation is the desire to walk with God in the Garden of Eden where all is peaceful and idyllic.  And yet, at times, God calls me to abide with him in the Garden of Gethsemane where all is dark and chaotic.  My temptation is to run from the hard places and I would always do that except for this: I (as do you) have an elder brother, the Lord Jesus Christ who has abided in those hard places to the very end.  And having done so, he has made it possible for you and me to be faithful not only on the good days, but even in the worst of times.  If you are struggling today, do not despair.  Jesus Christ has gone before you and even now is with you in the midst of your pain and heavy burdens.  In him, your salvation is eternal.  Think on this and do not be afraid.