Twenty-Ninth Sunday in Ordinary Time

For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who has similarly been tested in every way, yet without sin. So let us confidently approach the throne of grace to receive mercy and to find grace for timely help.

Jesus is our high priest. He is the one who has given us our faith, proclaimed the Gospel, and shown us the Way, the Truth, and the Life and we are forever in debt to him. He is also the perfect example of holiness, providing us with a model of living righteous and loving lives. At first, we might be intimidated by Jesus’ way of life, but because he was one of us and knows what it means to be human, we should not be afraid to come to him in our times of need. He knows what it is like to be tempted, to suffer, and to be mocked. The only difference is he remained without sin. However, he doesn’t hold our weaknesses against us, not if we come to him in humility, seek his mercy, and allow him to bestow his grace on us. He is our high priest and as such he strives to lead us to eternal life with him, His Father, and the Holy Spirit. So, let us go confidently to the throne of the Holy Trinity and trust God will sympathize with and forgive us our trespasses.

Do we trust that God is merciful? Have we sought out Jesus through our prayers and asked for his Divine Mercy? How can we imitate Jesus and become priestly preachers and doers of God’s Will?

O Lord, we confidently approach your throne, asking for your mercy and grace.

Amen.