“Now the point in what we are saying is this: we have such a high priest, one who is seated at the right hand of the throne of the Majesty in heaven, a minister in the holy places, in the true tent that the Lord set up, not man.” – Hebrews 8:1-2 

Scripture reading: Hebrews 2:1-13

Today we gather for worship. As a holy convocation (Leviticus 23:3), we assemble in the presence of God. Do we grasp the glory of what is going on? Understanding what this passage tells us about the presence of Christ in our worship should both humble and excite us.

First, the Lord Jesus is the One Who leads us into the presence of God. It must be Him because we have no access on our own. Verse 13 tells us that He comes into God’s presence and that He comes together with those whom He has brought into God’s family by the new birth. Christ leads us into the presence of God.

Second, verse 12 tells us that Christ is the One Who sings with us. The Lord Jesus, as He gathers with His people, sings the praises of His God. Isn’t it a wonderful thing to think that Jesus leads us in God’s praises?

Third, verse 12 tells us Christ is the One Who preaches to us. The Lord Jesus, as He gathers with His people, tells of God’s name to His brothers. When the Word of God is faithfully preached, it is the Lord Jesus Who is preaching. Jesus Himself mentioned that His Church is gathered into His sheepfold as they listen to His voice (John 10:17).

There really is nothing humdrum about our public gatherings. Christ, the ascended high priest, gathers with us to lead us to God, to sing with us and preach to us. Who would want to miss such an assembly?

Suggestions for prayer

Pray that we would cherish the blessing of corporate worship and have a sense that our worship leader, the Lord Jesus Christ, is amongst us. 

Reverend John van Eyk has served as Senior Pastor of Trinity Reformed Church (United Reformed) in Lethbridge, Alberta since 2017.