Jesus Christ became one with us so that we might become one with God

In today’s appointed Epistle for the Daily Prayer of the Church, the Letter to the Hebrews tells us about the intimate connection between Jesus and us in the miracle of the Incarnation:

 

For the one who sanctifies and those who are sanctified all have one Father. For this reason Jesus is not ashamed to call them brothers and sisters, saying, ‘I will proclaim your name to my brothers and sisters, in the midst of the congregation I will praise you.’ And again, ‘I will put my trust in him.’ And again, ‘Here am I and the children whom God has given me.’

 

Since, therefore, the children share flesh and blood, he himself likewise shared the same things, so that through death he might destroy the one who has the power of death, that is, the devil, and free those who all their lives were held in slavery by the fear of death. For it is clear that he did not come to help angels, but the descendants of Abraham. Therefore he had to become like his brothers and sisters in every respect, so that he might be a merciful and faithful high priest in the service of God, to make a sacrifice of atonement for the sins of the people. Because he himself was tested by what he suffered, he is able to help those who are being tested. (Heb. 2:11-18)

 

The author tells us that Jesus had to become like us, his brothers and sisters, in every respect in order to redeem us. Christ who had no sin, took on our sinfulness, so that you and I might be elevated to the status of the sons and daughters of God.

 

Let us pray:  Gracious God, we thank you for the gift of Your Son, Jesus Christ, who became one with us so that we might become one with You.  Amen.

 

CALENDAR REMINDERS

 

Seaside Seniors will meet in Sutton Hall this Thursday, 16 January 2014 for lunch and activities.

 

The Churches on the Island are hosting the 165^th Diocesan Council which begins on Friday, 7 February 2014 and end on Saturday, 8 February 2014.  If you have not yet signed up to volunteer, please do.

 

Bishop Jeff Fisher will visit St. Augustine on Sunday, 9 February.  The service time has been changed to 12:30 p.m. for that day.  Please note this for your calendar.

 

Please remember everyone on our Prayer List.

 

Your servant in Christ,

 

Fr. Chester J. Makowski

St. Augustine of Hippo Episcopal Church

Galveston, Texas 77550