Hebrews 5:1-10

“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.” vs. 7

The writer of Hebrews used the sacrificial system of Judaism as a template for helping Jewish Christians understand why it was necessary for Jesus to undergo sufferings and death at the hands of the religious leaders. Just as the appointed high priests of Israel had offered up gifts and sacrifices for the sins of the people, so Jesus, having been appointed High Priest by God, offered himself as a sacrifice for the restoration of our broken world. While the language used in this passage may seem strange to us, especially in the references to Melchizadek, the writer is right on in his understanding the link between unconditional love and sacrifice. There remains no better way to express steadfast love than in sacrificing one’s life for the sake of others. We regularly celebrate this connection as we honor those who serve in the armed forces, but it’s even better when we recognize the amazing sacrificial service being done out of love for Jesus in congregations and ministries all around the world. We don’t always see the better side of humanity, but when we do, it almost always involves the conjunction of love and sacrifice. And it happens more often than we think!

Thought for the Day: Where have I seen love and service combined for great good?