Since then we have a great high priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus, the Son of God, let us hold fast our confession. For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who in every respect has been tempted as we are, yet without sin. Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need. Hebrews 4.14-16
Advent is about Jesus invading time and space full of compassion. He understands what we go through each day. He gets what we deal with as He was tempted and faced with trials just as we are. The difference is Jesus never sinned. He is that perfect high priest.
As the great high priest, Jesus made the perfect and final sacrifice to make atonement for the sins of people. After making His sacrifice on the cross and being raised from the dead Jesus passed through the heavens to God’s great abode. He is truly God. He is truly man. Hebrews says, Therefore he had to be made like His brothers in every respect, so that he might become a merciful and faithful high priest in the service of God, to make propitiation for the sins of the people (2.17). Jesus by dying satisfies the payment for sin, so that our sins can be forgiven and we can be rescued from the wrath of God.
Kings and rulers are most of the time found to be unapproachable. Jesus though, the King of Kings, is approachable. We are called by the Holy Spirit to come with confidence before God’s throne. There we receive mercy and grace through Jesus Christ. So, come to God with your sin, your temptations, your trials, whatever burdens you have and allow the mercy and grace of Jesus to cover you. Don’t run or flee from Jesus, God’s will, the word of God, the church or even your family. Too often people are prone to do this instead of running to the throne of God.
Advent is about Jesus coming to us and becoming like us, so that we can run to Him and become like Him. I pray this advent season you are running to the throne of Jesus Christ. There you will find a compassionate and approachable Savior.