Two Reflections

Each passage in the Bible is open to all types of interpretations. No two people will react or describe any event exactly the same. There will always be some variation. Jesus is the subject here. He is described as "holy, innocent, undefiled, separated from sinners, higher than the heavens." This is very important for all Christians to read, hear, and have access to for further reflection. What makes Jesus special? How did the Early Church see Jesus? What are the implications for the Church today?

The role of Jesus is explained. His place in heaven is explained. Jesus is the "mediator of a better covenant". He is God's loyal, loving, obedient son. Jesus is a high priest who is seated in heaven. This is important for each Christian to remember. Heaven not the earth is Jesus' home; temporarily earth is the home of each Christian.

Jesus' ministry was always in motion. As word of his healing the sick and driving out demons spread, more and more people came to see him and hear him preach. It important to know that his followers came from throughout that region, not just one town. They were from Galilee, Judea, Jerusalem, Idumea, the neighborhood of Tyre and Sidon, from beyond the Jordan. How wonderful this is to hear and reflect upon because this was all done by word of mouth. There was no Facebook, no Twitter, no cell phone, no television to instantly get the message out to the masses. This was a very personal ministry. People who witnessed the miracles or heard his preaching shared it with others. The word of his ministry had spread around the region so much that there were crowds around him, asking him to cure them. Even unclean spirits knew who Jesus was and would fall down and say "You are the Son of God." How amazing that is. How much pressure Jesus must have been under! He was busy doing God's work! He was healing, preaching, praying! He was there to serve God, offering compassion and love to the people.