The first reading of today's liturgy, Hebrews 4:14-16, are additional words of strengthening for the Jewish Christians, the recipient of this particular "letter" or homily. It is no less for us today. In Jesus there is not just any high priest. No, this Savior, this Messiah, he is the great high priest. Although free from any sin during his lifetime on this earth, Jesus is able to sympathize with us who struggle against the enticements of sin, especially when a person becomes the victim of habitual sin or sins. Think of the many temptations that challenged him throughout his public ministry.
Never falling victim to the power of evil put before him, he comforted sinners and reminded all that there is always for sinners the "throne of grace," the throne of God. We can approach our God's throne not solely to praise his wonder and goodness but to become ourselves the recipient of the Father's graces and helps.
