Devotion for October 12, 2021

Hebrews 5:1-4
Every high priest chosen from among mortals is put in charge of things pertaining to God on their behalf, to offer gifts and sacrifices for sins. They are able to deal gently with the ignorant and wayward, since they themselves are subject to weakness; and because of this they must offer sacrifice for their own sins as well as for those of the people. And one does not presume to take this honor, but takes it only when called by God, just as Aaron was.

I suppose this should not be a life verse for a minister, but there were days in congregational ministry when I clung to this passage. It is a reminder of calling and that we all have a responsibility given by God. As a minister that calling extends to dealing with the ignorant and wayward. Let’s be honest, the church is filled with those, and I was, and still am one of them, which follows why I was able to deal gently with them.

Jesus said we would always have the poor and widows among us. We too will also have the ignorant and wayward. Yet, before we get too full of ourselves, we are reminded that we are one and the same sometimes. It is why we as people of faith must remember to deal gently for in the next interaction, we may be the ignorant one. Humility serves us well, and we are given honor as God distributes it.

Therefore, stay humble. Laugh at yourself. Offer grace. Ask for grace.