Lenten Reflections: Jesus is Better

The former priests, on the one hand, existed in greater numbers because they were prevented by death from continuing, but Jesus, on the other hand, because He continues forever, holds His priesthood permanently. Therefore He is able also to save forever those who draw near to God through Him, since He always lives to make intercession for them. For it was fitting for us to have such a high priest, holy, innocent, undefiled, separated from sinners and exalted above the heavens; who does not need daily, like those high priests, to offer up sacrifices, first for His own sins and then for the sins of the people, because this He did once for all when He offered up Himself. For the Law appoints men as high priests who are weak, but the word of the oath, which came after the Law, appoints a Son, made perfect forever. Hebrews 7:23-28

The writer of this book to the Hebrews was trying to make one main point in his letter: Jesus is better. Jesus, as our High Priest, is better than the priests appointed by man. Jesus, the Lamb of God, offered up Himself for the sins of the people. Jesus, the embodiment of the New Covenant, is better than the Old Covenant that came through Abraham. Jesus, personification of grace, is better than the Law. The Hebrews needed to be reminded so that they would not turn back to the old ways, forgetting the promise of the gospel and the truth that Jesus is better!

I need to be reminded, too.

I need to be reminded that Jesus is better than any material thing and that Jesus is better than having my needs met through my fleshly desires. I need to remember to choose Jesus when faced with a decision. Jesus is better than worldly success. Jesus is better than financial security. Jesus is better than accolades from colleagues. Jesus is better than acceptance from acquaintances. When I have to choose a way to think, behave, relate to others, I need to choose Jesus' way, because His is better.

Lord, keep this phrase at the forefront of my mind today and every day to come. Let my actions reveal that I believe Jesus is better!