Word for the day by Christian Education Forum

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“Seated at the right hand of God.”

Bible Reading: Psalm 110

Key Verse:  4

“You are a priest for ever in the order of Melchizedek.”

DEVOTION

The book of Psalms is a collection of ancient hymns and poems; it continues to be a source of inspiration. The Psalms live on because they reflect a profound belief in a God who had done wonderful things in the past and continues to do so today and for ever. He could be trusted to ensure justice and peace. Seated at the right hand of God" is an important theological concept found in the New Testament, showing Jesus’ redemptive work. Sitting at the right hand of a king signified a position of power and privilege. In the Gospel of Mark, we read: “He [Jesus] was taken up into heaven and sat down at the right hand of God"(Mk 16:19).
In this Psalm, God is seen as appointing the Messiah [Jesus Christ] to be a priest for ever. According to Scripture, the Messiah would be a descendant of David (Is:7), but this prophesy presents him as a priest in the order of Melchizedek (Gen 14:18-20). He became a prototype of Messiah, whose priesthood was not based Aaronic priesthood, but was with divine command (Heb 5: 5-11; Heb 7 and 8). We may learn more about Jesus as our sin-bearing Messiah, and as prince of peace in Isiah 9:6-7 and Isiah chapter 53.
Psalm 110 offers an idealistic view of a king and it is not surprising; it came to be associated with hope for a future king of peace and harmony. The High Priesthood of Christ is a central theme in Christian theology, emphasizing Jesus Christ's unique and eternal role as the mediator between God and humanity. This king and His kingdom are within us. It is up to us to value and follow the values of the kingdom that Jesus taught, lived, died on the cross, rose, and living with us now and for ever.

PRAYER

O God, our Father, we come to you in utter humility to seek your forgiveness and blessings. Dear Lord, teach us, guide us, and protect us. Hear this prayer through Jesus Christ, our King, High Priest and Savior. Amen.

 

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY
There is a common priesthood of the laity, which is also rightly called a royal priesthood (cf. 1 Pt. 2:9; Rev. 1:6; 5:9ff.). Faithful are united as members of the messianic community with their heavenly King; it is conferred by the sacrament of Baptism. There is a still small voice of love that says, “you are my beloved, my favour rests on you” (I King 19: 12; Mt 3:17). That is the voice we need most of all to hear.

Dr. Zac Varghese, Sinai Mar Thoma Church, North London.

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