Monday 12 October 2020

Psalm 142

Background

For some, susceptibility to temptation is an indication of weakness. It is easy to think there is something lacking if you long for things that you see as wrong. I remember – many years ago, I hasten to add – responding to a young person asking, “Do you ever fancy people?”

I replied, “Of course I do.” We went on to discuss how ministers were like other people, and that it was what you did with desire and feelings that mattered. But before I had time to blink, one of the young people had reported the conversation to their parents, who made a complaint to the Chair of District, who in turn phoned me up!

The writer to the Hebrews places Jesus as the ‘great high priest’ – who like the Temple’s high priest goes beyond the Temple’s curtain – and more ‘has passed through the heavens’. Jesus is the high priests’ high priest! But the point is made that he, ‘’in every respect has been tested as we are”. I blush a little when I reflect on what "every respect" could mean! I find both challenge and comfort in his words, "yet without sin".

To Ponder:

• What are your real temptations and what do they tell you about who you are?
• Reflect – however you are tempted, nevertheless you are loved, accepted and may approach the throne with boldness.