If perfection could have been attained through the Levitical priesthood . . . why was there still need for another priest to come? (Heb. 7:11)
Expanded Passage: Hebrews 7:11-12
Beatrice had loved everything about the home in which she’d raised her children. And over the years, its worn wood floors and Formica kitchen island echoed with the laughter of the grands. But as her mind grew foggy and memories more faint, only her prayer shawl could draw her back to comfort. Nothing had been as important to her in all her years as the intimacy she shared with God while seeking his face with that knitted hug on her shoulders. And still, one day, Beatrice would discover something even greater.
The sacrificial system couldn’t bring people close to God, so he introduced something infinitely better. Jesus, our perfect high priest, was the only way for people to be restored to a full relationship with the Father. Although for centuries the Levitical priests made regular sacrifices on behalf of the people of God, even they were fallible and needed atonement for their sins. It was a never-ending cycle that always pointed to the need for something better.
Sometimes, God allows our systems to fail so we’ll look for his greater way. Faith isn’t about clinging to what used to work, but about trusting him to lead us into what is new.
Beatrice clung to her prayer shawl in life for peace and hope. But when her eyes opened one morning in heaven, she truly met the Source of her faith.
Exchange an old pattern for something better.
Elizabeth Rhyno is wife to Scott and mother to three adult children and two sons-in-law. She is an ordained pastor and entrepreneur. She enjoys helping people deepen their intimacy with God and grow in joyful purpose.
© 2026 Wesleyan Publishing House. Reprinted from Light from the Word. Used by permission. Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®.
