Daily Word

He can deal gently with the ignorant and wayward, since he himself is beset in weakness. Because of this he is obligated to offer sacrifice for his own sins just as he does for those of the people. And no one takes this honor for himself, but only when called by God, just as Aaron was. Hebrews 5 2-4. The weakness of the OT high priest in the face of his own temptations compelled him to moderate his indignation over others’ sins and “deal gently” with them. Jesus’ sympathy also is strongly motivated, since he fully identifies with the struggles of His people. Yet Jesus never succumbed to sin. The law distinguished between sins committed out of weakness or ignorance, and sins committed in defiance against the Lords authority. The OT high priest was himself in need of atonement and forgiveness, unlike our sinless high priest. The initial call of Aaron was confirmed in response to the challenge of Korah, Dathan, and Abiram through the budding of Aaron’s staff. The priestly privilege of approach to God is by invitation only- mediated through physical descent for the Old Testament Levitical priests, but finally established through the divine oath to Jesus the Son. Today, recognize the privilege you have to approach God at any time, and every moment. Be reminded of the great sacrifice that was made on your behalf to do so.