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PRAYER FOR TODAY
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Mon October 7 - King of righteousness and peace First, the name Melchizedek means “king of righteousness”; then also,
king of Salem means “king of peace.” Hebrews 7:2
In Old Testament times, the High Priest stood between the presence of God in his sanctuary and the Israelites. He mediated, offering the blood of sacrifices to atone for the people’s sin. The priest would also receive offerings & tithes. In like manner, Melchizedek presented Abram bread and wine, blessed him and received his tithe. In this he foreshadowed the role of Aaron and his priestly descendants, and ultimately the priestly ministry of Jesus!
Names and their meanings had significance; peace and righteousness were non- negotiable virtues for a High Priest. Melchizedek had them in abundance, hence his name. Isaiah foretold of one who was to come, “He (Jesus) will be called .... Prince of Peace. Of the greatness of his government and peace there will be no end. He will reign on David’s throne and over his kingdom, establishing and upholding it with justice and righteousness...” (Isaiah 9:6,7).
In this, Jesus was superior to Melchizedek. Melchizedek, unlike Jesus, could not impart righteousness and peace. Jesus is the giver of peace (John 14:27), and the giver of righteousness (Romans 5:17). They are his gifts to you and me. But there’s more – these gifts are his peace and his righteousness. Let’s take a moment to reflect on this wonderful truth: the King of glory has given us of himself. Surely this must fill us with a sense of awe, wonder and joy?
Father, I joyfully accept the King of righteousness and the King of peace to reign in my heart. Amen.
Tuesday October 8 - Our eternal High Priest Without father or mother, without genealogy, without beginning of days or
end of life, resembling the Son of God, he remains a priest forever. Hebrews 7:3
The writer continues to draw parallels between Melchizedek (the first Priest) and Jesus (our eternal High Priest). The briefest of accounts in Genesis 14 gives no mention of Melchizedek’s parentage nor his death. Insomuch, there is an inference that he is an eternal priest.
Centuries later, Moses’ brother Aaron was appointed the first ‘official’ High Priest. The law lay down that annually, on the Day of Atonement, the High Priest must enter the inner sanctuary to offer sacrifice on behalf of the people. However, before entering into the presence of God, he had to atone for his own sins. It could be that a rope was tied to his ankle so his body could be recovered should he die.
Let’s rejoice, there is now no need for an earthly High Priest, Jesus is our eternal High Priest. He rose never to die; there is no need for a successor. Jesus’ priesthood is superior to Melchizedek and Aaron’s. Jesus, the spotless Lamb of God was without sin so there was no need for personal atonement, nor a rope tied to his ankle. Jesus did not sprinkle the blood of animal sacrifice but his own precious blood. It suffices once, for all time, for all people.
Thankfully, “Jesus entered the Most Holy Place once for all by his own blood, thus obtaining eternal redemption.” (Hebrews 9:12).
Lord Jesus, today I join with heaven’s choir, ”With your blood you purchased for God persons from every tribe and language and people and nation.” Amen.
PRAYER FOR TODAY