For the Twenty-ninth Sunday in Ordinary Time…
For we do not have a high priest
who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who has similarly been tested in every way, yet without sin.
So let us confidently approach the throne of grace to receive mercy and to find grace for timely help.
Hebrews 4:15-16
The high priest, here, is Jesus. Thanks to Who he is, and what he has gained for us, we can stand in the Presence of a God who “gets us,” a God who sympathizes, and suffers with us. We can confidently beg his mercy and receive it. And we can bring every single need to him, asking for help.
Perhaps you have a need for prayer, just as I do. Recently, we’ve dealt with illnesses and buried loved ones. We’ve seen some jobs come, and some go. We’ve been staggered by the losses of lives and livelihoods and properties in the wake of hurricanes. All while watching the threat of wars around the globe.
Yet, we are not alone, and we are not to despair. Even when there is always a reason to be on our knees, we are to lift our prayers before the throne of grace. Jesus knows the pain and suffering and angst we feel. He knows that we are tested daily by the struggles we face. He has faced it all, and through him, we will receive timely help.
Let us press in confidently in prayer. Our lists of needs do not scare him away or waste his time. He desires that we come to him. With everything.
Press in. Pray. Lean on Jesus.
Jesus, I place my life and my needs—especially all I find most discouraging—into your capable hands. Send your mercy, graces and guidance. Jesus, I trust in you.
