“So he is able to save completely those who come to God through him, because he always lives to intercede for them.” Hebrews 7:25
“And the others who became priests were numerous, because death prevented them from continuing in office,24 but he holds his priesthood permanently since he lives forever. 25 So he is able to save completely those who come to God through him, because he always lives to intercede for them. 26 For it is indeed fitting for us to have such a high priest: holy, innocent, undefiled, separate from sinners, and exalted above the heavens. 27 He has no need to do every day what those priests do, to offer sacrifices first for their own sins and then for the sins of the people, since he did this in offering himself once for all. 28 For the law appoints as high priests men subject to weakness, but the word of solemn affirmation that came after the law appoints a son made perfect forever.” Hebrews 7:23-28
Father God,
Yesterday we rejoiced that You are able to keep that which we’ve committed to You, until we are with You forever. It reminded me of this verse in Hebrews – yes Hebrews again! You do not just save – but save completely. We are not half forgiven, half saved. There is no small print which discounts some of our sin!
There were endless sacrifices for sin before Jesus. For many types of sins. Sins of omission, sins of commission (wilfully not doing what is right and wilfully doing what is wrong). Sins against You, God, sins against our fellow man, harm accidentally done, sinful speech, wrongful testimony . . . the list is endless and then there are the thoughts that no-one else knows about but You, Lord. It must have been constant sacrifice and then there were holy days . . .
It is both an amazing and yet terrible picture of Jesus our one perfect sacrifice on the cross. Now He continually, as we walk in Him, intercedes for us, continually forgives and cleanses us. And Your Holy Spirit seeks to guide us, directs our paths and teach us how to live good. So we do not wilfully abuse His, Your gift of salvation and Holiness. Not just after communion, not just when we stop and pray but ongoing moment by moment as we walk with You. Our perfect, permanent High Priest.
Thank You. Help us to never take Your gift of salvation for granted but rejoice in Your everlasting love.
In Jesus name we pray, Amen.
Suggestions for prayer . . .
God of love and mercy,
For our family, friends, neighbours, church fellowship. Those people who make our lives better. Bless them, lead them to peace with You, and faith. Meet their needs for today.
For Kings, rulers and Governments.
For the HRH King Charles and HRH Duchess of Cambridge, Kate’s continued recovery back to full health and strength.
For our government, its decisions now and any future changes for good.
For nations and their rulers and governments to have a desire to make peace, and make it happen.
For Ukraine and Gaza and a permanent peace for all. Myanmar, North Korea and Syria.
For our society to look after and care for the weak, the sick and those with special needs. To continue to be a nation which gives where there is human need.
For those who do not have what they need to live through no fault of their own. The organisations that work out of compassion to provide food, medical care and support to become self sufficient.
For refugees and children who live in continual danger and need. Send support and supplies.
For us, as we clean up and wash up to know that You have washed us sparkling clean inside or out. The joy that You, Lord have not missed a bit!
In Jesus name, Amen.
Worship Friday 2nd February 2024
Amazing, every minute of every day I and you are forgiven.
I’m forgiven
because you were forsaken
and I’m accepted
you were condemned
I’m alive and well
your spirit is within me
because you died and rose again
Repeat chorus . . .
Amazing love how can can it be
that you my king would die for me
amazing love I know its true
that it’s my joy to honour you
in all I do, I honor you
You are my King
Jesus You are my King. . .
Lyrics: Billy James Foote