“We are weakened . . with broken hearts, weary spirits, and fading vision. The distance between where we are and where we want to be is impassable. . . . We have a high priest who is able to understand. Since he understands, we find mercy and grace when we need it. We are not left to languish.”- Max Lucado
“For our high priest [Jesus] is able to understand our weaknesses. He was tempted in every way that we are, but he did not sin. Let us, then, feel very sure that we can come before God’s throne where there is grace. There we can receive mercy and grace to help us when we need it.” -Hebrews 4:15-16 (NCV)
In Chapter 7 (“God Gets You”) of Unshakable Hope, Max Lucado talks about the promise of God found in John 1:14. The Word became flesh. Most noteworthy, this promise matters because in it we find comfort that God:
- understands us, our pain
- listens to us
- comprehends the challenges we face
- never shrugs or scoffs or dismisses physical struggle
Therefore, Pastor Lucado exhorts, ponder long and hard the promise of the Incarnation. Because Jesus came from heaven to earth to reach you, you can take your fears to Him. As a result, Jesus not only understands you (human nature). His Father uniquely positioned Him to help you (divine nature), to carry you home.
In conclusion, Pastor Lucado reiterates God’s message for us:
” ‘I’m (God) going to pick you up and carry you home.’ Let him, won’t you? You cannot make it on your own. But Jesus has the strength you do not have. He is, after all, your high priest, able and willing to help you in your time of need. Let him do what he came to do. Let him carry you home.”
Today’s question: In what ways does Jesus, your high priest, carry you home? Please share.
Tomorrow’s blog: “Crashing quickly on the rocks of reality”
