Readings for today: Hebrews 7-8, Psalms 28
Melchizedek is one of the more mysterious people in the Bible. He appears out of nowhere to meet Abraham after a great battle. Abraham is so impressed by him that he offers him a tithe of his plunder. Then he disappears from the pages of Scripture until the Book of Hebrews where he is offered up as an archetype of the Messiah. Clearly, the author assumes his audience knows the story from Genesis and he goes to great lengths to share how Melchizedek was no ordinary king. His name literally means “king of righteousness” and he is the “king of Salem” or king of Jerusalem which means “king of peace.” Some suggest Melchizedek is a theophany, an appearance by God in the Old Testament. Some even suggest Melchizedek is Jesus, appearing on earth before His incarnation. Whatever you may believe, it is clear the author of the Book of Hebrews believes Melchizedek represents an eternal priesthood, an office Jesus Himself now holds by virtue of His life-long obedience, fulfillment of the Law, atoning death, and victorious resurrection.
And that’s why the author of Hebrews draws the following conclusion, “But because Jesus remains forever, he holds his priesthood permanently. Therefore, he is able to save completely those who come to God through him, since he always lives to intercede for them.” (Hebrews 7:24-25 CSB) These are some of my favorite verses in the entire book. I find the implications of what is said here to be incredibly comforting. First, God is able to save completely. Utterly. Wholly. There is not a part of my life that is left untouched by grace. Not a corner of my life that God leaves unredeemed. There is not a single door in my life that God leaves unopened. He plunges to the depths of my sin, the depths of my shame, the depth of my fear and anxiety to bring healing and salvation. Second, Jesus lives to intercede for me. He is present even now in the heavenly throne room praying for me. Talking to His Father about me. It’s an overwhelming thought. To know I am on Jesus’ heart and mind. My needs. My concerns. My desires. All are important to Him. I do not need to fear the accuser. According to the Book of Revelation, he has been cast out of heaven forever. There is no one left to condemn me before God. There is no one left to accuse me before God. No one left to judge me before God. There is only Jesus. My Advocate. My Intercessor. My Savior.
Readings for tomorrow: Hebrews 9-10, Psalms 29