Jesus is our High Priest!

For some, this means nothing more than the words they just read. But there is a big difference for those who have put their trust in God, if we stop and think about it for a little bit, while adding a little bit of culture.

The Israelites had a day of atonement. On that day, the sanctuary would be cleansed. On that day, everything that had been happening the whole year on the credit card system, if you will, was about to be paid up (as far as the earthly symbols go). Would the payment be accepted?

Each year, on the day of atonement, the Israelites would pray and search their hearts. Had all sins been confessed? If the high priest was not worthy, or didn't fulfill the sacrifices and offerings in the correct manner, it would not be accepted.

The high priest wore bells on the end of his garment, that would jingle as he walked and ministered in the Most Holy Place. If the bells stopped ringing, the other priests, in the Holy Place, who held the end of a rope that was tied to the high priest's ankle, would have to pull his dead body out. For he would be consumed by the power and majesty of God, if this high priest was unworthy or the people hadn't done their part. A very solemn ceremony, to say the least.

But we can rejoice! We know that our High Priest has offered the best and the only sacrifice that is worthy. We don't have to fear. Jesus' sacrifice was what the law demanded. We don't have to fear the judgment/final day of atonement, as long as our trust is in Jesus, because His sacrifice has been accepted in heaven.