The Son is the radiance of God’s glory and the exact representation of his being. . . . After he had provided purification for sins, he sat down at the right hand of the Majesty in heaven. (Heb. 1:3)

JESUS IS MY PRIEST. He’s more than that, but He’s most assuredly that. Of course, Jesus is not just a priest but the High Priest—and not just a high priest but one whose self-sacrifice continues to make sinners right with God.

Just as Jesus is a king who will reign forever, He will likewise continue in the role of high priest forever. Yet Jesus did not enter the Most Holy Place with the blood of bulls and goats, but rather made it possible for us to enter into God’s presence by His own blood shed once for all.

This is why Christ’s priesthood is unique from all the high priests who came before Him. The high priest did not have a chair in the Most Holy Place, because he was never finished with making sacrifices. He had to do so every year on the Day of Atonement because the people (including himself) continued to sin. The blood of the animals served only as a symbolic reminder; it did not take away their sins.

Yet Jesus was able to sit down at the highest place of power, to the right of the heavenly Father. Jesus could rest because His personal sacrifice was sufficient to take away our sins and purchase salvation for us. Though His work is done, He lives to make intercession for us.

Take advantage of the access Jesus grants to the very presence of God.

Steve Johnson teaches at United Christian Academy in Stanardsville, Virginia, and frequently preaches at area churches. He enjoys life with his wife and five-year-old son.