Christmas Advent Bible Reading Plan: Jesus Is BornSampel

To Be Our High Priest

Christmas time can be a funny thing for Christians. Even though many people celebrate the birth of Jesus by making wreaths, singing carols, spending time with family, and baking Christmas treats, there isn’t much about the Messianic prophecies, covenant rituals, or the Christmas story itself that feels especially “Christmassy” through our modern lens. As we sit here in a hot (hopefully not wet) Summer December, my present life and the setting in today’s reading couldn’t be more different.

In the book of Leviticus, we read about animal sacrifices administered by the Levite priests as sin offerings (Leviticus 9:1–7). We read about Sabbath rest and self-denial as necessary parts of this cleansing act (16:29–34). We see people guided by laws and regulations desperately in need of atonement and intercession, even beyond what an earthly priest could provide.

We also see our faithful Jesus, weary from the cost of obedience yet fixed on His calling. Hebrews tells us, “During his earthly life, he offered prayers and appeals with loud cries and tears to the one who was able to save him from death, and he was heard because of his reverence. Although he was the Son, he learned obedience from what he suffered” (Hebrews 5:7–8). This portrait may not put us in the traditional Christmas spirit, but it puts life in its rightful perspective.

Jesus is a different priest from what you may think of when you hear the word priest. Instead of being clothed in fancy tassels, collars, or icons to display status and authority, He was clothed in humility. “He was declared by God a high priest” (Hebrews 5:10) because His role was to reconcile our sins, becoming a bridge-builder and peace-maker between the Father and us. Jesus is God’s hand outstretched to us.

During Christmas time, we celebrate the practice of generosity. While exchanging gifts among family and friends is beautiful, it’s important to remember God’s incredible gift to us that motivates our own generosity.

Keep celebrating the Advent season in all the ways that make your heart sing. Make wreaths, go to the beach, and eat until your stomachs are content. When you’re tempted to forget the greatest gift in the midst of all this, remember to meditate on why Jesus came and what His humble priesthood accomplished for us.

Prayer

Jesus, thank you for being our High Priest. Thank You for guiding me in humility every day. In the craziness and busyness of Christmas, remind me of Your goodness afresh today. In Jesus' Name, Amen.