Our scripture this morning is Hebrews 10:12-18.
“But our High Priest offered himself to God as a single sacrifice for sins, good for all time. Then he sat down in the place of honor at God’s right hand. There he waits until his enemies are humbled and made a footstool under his feet. For by that one offering he forever made perfect those who are being made holy. And the Holy Spirit also testifies that this is so. For he says, “This is the new covenant I will make with my people on that day, says the Lord: I will put my laws in their hearts, and I will write them on their minds.” Then he says, “I will never again remember their sins and lawless deeds.” And when sins have been forgiven, there is no need to offer any more sacrifices.”
Paul writes to Hebrews dispersed throughout the world of his time with the Good News of Christ’s coming and His love for all people. He compares the worship and understanding of God their ancestors held with the example Jesus gave for all people, Jews and Gentiles together. This is a new concept for many, but Paul explains that in Jesus God has offered a New Covenant for all His children.
While Paul is known as the Apostle to the Gentiles, he cares for everyone and he wants to ensure that those Jews who live outside Jerusalem hear of the blessing of Christ. Through the circulation of this letter in their communities, many come to faith in Jesus and are again in full relationship with God. The promise God made to His people long before has been fulfilled.
Jesus came as our Lord and savior, our brother and teacher, the only effective offering for our sin. Through this wonderful gift, we have the opportunity to be made right with God, reconnected to His love and mercy. Because of His obedience we are forgiven and God waits only for our decision to accept and return to Him.
Loving Lord, You sent Your son to save us from our fallen state and show us the way back to You. Make us strong in faith to go to the world to share Your love with everyone. Amen.