“Since then we have a great high priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus, the Son of God, let us hold fast our confession. 15 For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who in every respect has been tempted as we are, yet without sin. 16 Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need (Heb. 4:14-16).”
Has anyone seen the Emmy-award winning show Undercover Boss? The main point is for CEO Senior Executives to experience and investigate how their business works, to identify the strengths and weaknesses, sympathize with the frustrations of the employees, and reward-hard workers for their efforts. After a couple weeks working undercover, the CEOs invite those whom they interacted with and reveal their true character.
The first episode was conducted by the CEO of Waste Management, Larry O’ Donnell. He interacted with three different employees and built a strong relationship with one of the project managers. The manager told Larry about his battle with diabetes, undergoing dialysis to filter his blood three days a week, and the pressure he receives daily to perform his job well. Larry was heartbroken, caring, and wanted to help him out because he too has a daughter that is physically and mentally challenged. At the end of the show, Larry offers the project manager the opportunity to become his market director, share his personal testimony, and encourage others never to give up.
In the same way, Jesus Christ, the CEO of the universe, is able to understand our struggles and frustrations. As the Scripture teaches, in every respect He became like us, taking on human flesh as the God-Man, and being tempted in every way as us, yet without sin! He is not a God who is far away, but a relational God who sympathizes with us. Just like Larry stepped down from his high and lofty position as CEO of Waste Management to understand his employees, Jesus Christ willingly humbled Himself from his heavenly throne as King of Kings to relate to His creation, breathe the same air as us, walk the same paths as us, and ultimately suffer more than everyone.
Because of Jesus, we are able to have confidence to draw near the throne of grace and receive the mercy in time of need. Are you struggling with depression? anxiety? anger? Go to the Lord in prayer. He cares for your soul and desires to build a relationship. Are you looking for someone to talk to? You can call on the Lord where you are, whether in the car, kitchen, or on top of a mountain. You don’t need to go to a priest, confession booth, or light a candle at church. Simply open the Word of God, ask for forgiveness, repent of your sins, and trust in the righteousness of Jesus Christ, who already suffered for the penalty of your sins.
What are some practical steps to building a relationship with God? 1.) Spend time in the Bible because it is living and active, and is your sword in battle. 2.) Find a local church that believes in the authority of Scripture and trusts in Christ alone for their salvation. 3.) Invite other believers into your life and don’t be afraid to share your past struggles with them. More than likely, they have been through the same temptations as you. God bless!
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