The Priestly Servanthood

Wednesday, March 14, 2018

Hebrews 5:5-6: So also Christ did not exalt Himself to be made a high priest, but was appointed by Him who said to Him, "You are my Son, today I have begotten You"; and He says also in another place, "You are a priest forever, after the order of Melchizedek."

For those of us who are pastors, especially in the Lutheran beliefs and traditions, we believe that the office of pastor is not one we seek out "on our own." Men are sought out by God, chosen in order to serve amongst people, to lead them to believe, repent, confess, receive forgiveness and life from God through Jesus, and live out their lives in faith to the end of living with God forever. We are to be priests to offer the "sacrifices" God gave for the benefit of His people. Pastors are also prophets, telling the people of God's pending judgement while telling the people of God's overwhelming grace when they repent, confess, and believe they are forgiven. As a man who is a Pastor, I did not seek this role. The Lord of the Church placed His call upon me, especially when the people of God at Faith Lutheran Church and School called me to be their Senior Pastor. Other denominations have variations on the same theme.

Yet, as a pastor, my role is that of a servant to the "Good Shepherd" and the "Great High Priest," and "THE Prophet." My role is subservient to the ONE who God placed to be shepherd of the world, THE ONE and ONLY sacrifice for the forgiveness of sins and cleansing for all people of every age, AND the ultimate Prophet of Law and Gospel. It is my role, when you boil it down, along with Pastor James, is to lead YOU to HIM. Our calling as pastors is to lead you to Jesus, the priest forever in the order of the "King of Righteousness." Melchizedek is a combination Hebrew word. "Melech" means "King." "Zedek" means "Righteousness." 

So, Jesus is the ultimate Prophet, Priest, and Pastor." He serves us (remember yesterday's blog), and I, along with Pastor James, serve You. Why? To lead people, you, to believe in the forgiveness that He gave. Father, send Your Spirit to lead us to believe more fully, Amen