Picture This

For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are—yet was without sin. Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need. ~ Hebrews 4:15-16

Picture a man, someone you don’t know and have never seen or spoken to directly. The law says you must take to him a portion of your money and the things you own so that your sins will be forgiven. If you have a need, you must tell someone else, that you don’t really know, who will then tell the “big” man. This man will then pray on your behalf. This man does not know you, has never met you, and only hears about you when you’ve done wrong things or have troubles. To you, he’s like the Wizard of Oz, someone hiding behind a curtain who will never touch you, come near you or have anything to do with you. However, you are still expected to treat him with the greatest respect and honor.

Now picture a man who is like your best friend, only better. This man has worked where you’ve worked, he’s had heartache and understands your relationship issues. His family has said in the past that they were embarrassed and ashamed of him. But still he loves them and has forgiven them. He loves you and longs to help you out. No matter what else is going on, he will drop everything and come to your aid in your time of need. He likes to give you presents that say, “I was thinking of you,” or “Just because.” He’s excited when you’re excited. He’s sad when you’re sad. He’s got wisdom and wants to share everything he knows with you. He’s got nothing to hide from you, and wants you to feel as though you don’t have to hide anything from him. He will always love you, no matter what. Even if you do things that may hurt his feelings, he will still be your friend and love you more than anything else in the whole wide world.

Consider these two men. Now, which do you want to run to and share all of your secrets with?