Great Meaning

Since the children share in blood and Flesh, Jesus likewise shared in them, that through death he might destroy the one who has the power of death, that is, the Devil, and free those who through fear of death had been subject to slavery all their life. Surely, he did not help angels but rather the descendants of Abraham; therefore, he had to become like his brothers and sisters in every way, that he might be a merciful and faithful high priest before God to expiate the sins of the people. Because he himself was tested through what he suffered, he is able to help those who are being tested. (Hebrews 2:14-18)

This last line in today’s first reading indicates Jesus helps us when we are tested because he was tested through suffering. And, we are frequently tested through fear of death especially when we suffer from physical and/or emotional pain.  Christ is always with us and always accompanies us in this pain and grief.  Christ cannot take the pain away but does help us endure it when we feel as if nailed to our own cross.  

We are slaves to sin all our lives.  Some of us feel shackled and unable to escape our bonds.  This can lead to depression and a feeling that life has no meaning for us. But even under those circumstances, we must have hope because Jesus was a merciful and faithful high priest before God to expiate the sins of the people, and us.  

Life has great meaning for us all even when our troubles seem insurmountable.  Unlike Snoopy whose life has great meaning when food is presented, our lives have meaning because we can love and be loved.  That confounds death and steals away its power over us.

Deacon David Pierce