Then, this morning, I opened my devotional guide and one of the themes from last night came back. I was directed to read Hebrews 9:1-14. In this selection, we are told about the role of the High Priest and the his entry to the Holy of Holies in the Temple. "Behind the second curtain stood a tent.... having the golden altar of incense and the art of the covenant covered on all side with gold, which contained a golden urn holding the manna, and Aaron's rod that budded, and the tables of the covenant."
This curtain is the one torn open in the account of Jesus' death in Matthew 27.
Our discussion last night touched on this curtain and how its being ripped open informs The Church's understand of the need for priests/pastor (or that we no longer need a priest/pastor).
Here is the message I would offer this morning: The image instructs us that God who does not reside in hidden places. God is accessible to us. This is primarily shown in God taking on our form and living among us. But it is also revealed in the acts of God.
A priest or pastor is not necessary - but we have pastors and priests in order to benefit from the wealth of reflection and study of past interactions between God and God's people. Pastors and priests are given the luxury of years to study. Then, we ask of them assistance in learning what we might.
Too often, we allow our communities understanding of topics such as the role of priests and pastors to rob us of the unity which is ours in Christ. The torn temple curtain nudged us in that direction last night. The Baptists and the Roman Catholic and the Lutheran participants each had their own opinions. I am hoping this morning's readings might assist us in holding to the unifying Word.
No comments:
Post a Comment