Word for the day by Christian Education Forum

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 Hosanna: Jesus' entry into Jerusalem - Alternative Style of Kingship

Hebrews 5:5-10

“(v.7) “During the days of Jesus’ life on earth, He offered up prayers and petitions with fervent cries and tears to the One who could save Him from death, and He was heard because of His fervent submission”
 
 The passage for today’s reading emphasizes on both Christ’s divinity and humanity.  Jesus is the Great High Priest.  The passage also emphasizes that Christ was chosen and called by His Father.  In v.6 where it says that “You are a priest forever, in the order of Melchizedek”, it is important to remember that Melchizedek was a priest of God as well as a king, and he is said to remain as a priest forever, he was a priest of God in Salem, which is Jerusalem.  So, saying in the order of Melchizedek is reminding us of Jesus’ permanent priesthood as well as kingship.  Christ’s authority and superiority is reminded here, being above all priests and kings.

In v. 9, we are reminded that Jesus was always morally perfect.  He chose to obey, even when that obedience would lead Him to suffering and death, He was able to model to us perseverance and utmost surrender to the Father’s will.  Christ was able to model to us that we too can fully surrender to God by totally trusting Him as His ways are purposeful to us.  Christ got His strength by consistently and constantly turning to the Father as well as speaking to Him.  If we are also able to be persistent in our prayer life to God, we too can find the strength to understand His goodness, completely trust Him, and devote our whole life for Him.  By doing so, we will know life is worthwhile even in situations that causes fear and anxiety.  Living for God is pushing on, living for self is running away.
                                            PRAYER
Gracious Father, thank You for Your love for us.  To even exist in this world, we are blessed.  Thank You for Your unconditional love.  Help us to fully surrender our lives to You as You are always there for us and will never let go of our hand.  Honor and glory to you Amen.

                                             Thought for the day
                              
“God knows our situation; He will not judge us as if we had no difficulties to overcome. What matters is the sincerity and perseverance of our will to overcome them.”
- C.S. Lewis
                              
Dr. Justeena Jess George
w/o Rev. Jess M. George, Youth Chaplain- N.E. Region

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