A Humble High Priest

10/21/2018

Step #1: Lectio / Read

Click the link below or open your Bible to the passage and read through the reading at least once, paying attention to what is happening in the text.

Hebrews 4:14-16

Step #2: Meditatio / Meditate

Use the following meditation to help you reflect more deeply on the Scripture (you may want to read the passage again).

One of the most common struggles we often have in our relationship with God is that we don't see Him as relatable. Many people see God as this far off and distant being that created us, interferes in our lives when necessary, and helps our favorite football team win sometimes. The truth is, He is not distant at all. He is intimately connected with our lives and and wants us to connect more with Him. He knows our struggles, not just because He knows us, but He went through them Himself. He suffered so that He could lead us by example.

The role of the priesthood is to sacrifice on behalf of the people. Jesus is the high priest talked about in today's ready. Jesus suffered for us and not only made an offering on our behalf, but He became the offering on our behalf. His sacrifice gives us the grace and strength to be true Christians and follow in His footsteps of love. It isn't easy, but it is possible. He showed us how by the way He lived His life. He knows our pain, feels our pain, hurts from our pain, just like we do. Especially in those moments of pain, let us stop seeing God as distant, but rather as intimately united with us. Let Him into those moments and watch Him turn those sacrifices and sufferings into incredible blessings as well.

Step #3: Oratio / Pray

These questions are to be used to talk to God; have a conversation with the Lord about these questions and what is going on in your heart as you pray today.

What are sometimes you dealt with suffering and pain in your life?

Where you able to unite those sufferings with Jesus? Why or why not?

Do you see God as distant or close to you? Why?

Step #4: Contemplatio / Contemplate

In this step, you listen. Stop talking, let God speak to your heart. You may repeat one of these short phrases to focus your mind on the Lord.

"Jesus, I trust in You."

"Here's my heart Lord."

"Come Holy Spirit."

Step #5: Actio / Act

In light of today's reading and your time spent in prayer with the Lord, what concrete action or actions will you take to let this encounter with the Lord bear fruit in you today?

Do not run from suffering and pain. Let the High Priest, Jesus, take that offering and transform it into something amazing.

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Today's prayer was prepared by Sean Norris, a theology teacher at JSerra Catholic High School in Orange County, CA.

If you have anything you'd like our team to pray for, please go to the page of our website called "Prayers" and let us know how we can pray for you today.

CARPE VERBUM