Focus

Let yourself become open to God and the knowledge that comes from the Word. Ask God for peace at this time.

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Read

Hebrews 2:10-18 (NRSV)

It was fitting that God, for whom and through whom all things exist, in bringing many children to glory, should make the pioneer of their salvation perfect through sufferings. For the one who sanctifies and those who are sanctified all have one Father. For this reason Jesus is not ashamed to call them brothers and sisters, saying,

“I will proclaim your name to my brothers and sisters,
in the midst of the congregation I will praise you.”

And again,

“I will put my trust in him.”

And again,

“Here am I and the children whom God has given me.”
Since, therefore, the children share flesh and blood, he himself likewise shared the same things, so that through death he might destroy the one who has the power of death, that is, the devil, and free those who all their lives were held in slavery by the fear of death. For it is clear that he did not come to help angels, but the descendants of Abraham. Therefore he had to become like his brothers and sisters in every respect, so that he might be a merciful and faithful high priest in the service of God, to make a sacrifice of atonement for the sins of the people. Because he himself was tested by what he suffered, he is able to help those who are being tested.

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Reflect

I have known only a few people in my life who were the only children in their families, but each of these persons had a sibling-like relationship with a cousin or best friend. We learn a lot about ourselves growing up as we interact with our siblings. From our older siblings, we learn how to do things, what to feel about things, and find some sense of peace about life because they have already traveled down those roads. From our younger siblings, we learn about being responsible because the younger ones are watching and following our lead. With younger siblings coming into the family, we must learn to share. Yes, we value these relationships in our lives because they help us become who we were created to be.

Have you ever thought of Jesus as a brother? Can we even sense the relationship with Jesus Christ in such a personal way? What might we learn from Jesus about who we are? We know God created us. We know Jesus Christ is God’s son. We know that God sent his son to live and dwell among us so we could learn more about who God is. We know he willingly gave his life for us so we could live as forgiven people. What all do we know about Jesus?

Hebrews tells us that Jesus had to become like our sibling in every respect so he might be a merciful and faithful high priest for us and so he could be a sacrifice for our sins. What do we know about Jesus? Jesus knows us!

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Pray

Thank you, loving God, for knowing us and giving us Jesus Christ to live and move among us to allow us to be in relationship with you. In his name we pray. Amen.

Go with God.