Eclipsing the Old Covenant: Embracing Jesus’ Eternal Priesthood

Hebrews 8, Ezekiel 43-44, Ecclesiastes 4

Guest Post: Patty Bellingham

Wasn’t the eclipse amazing? People across the United States prepared with special approved solar viewing glasses, lawn chairs, and, if necessary, plane tickets to witness it in the “path of totality.” After all, the eclipse was accessible only to those who were “in the path.”

Our reading today covers Hebrews 8, Ezekiel 43-44, and Ecclesiastes 4.

Jesus, as our High Priest, has ushered in a superior covenant, enabling us to truly know God. In Moses’ time, the high priest offered sheep, bulls, and goats’ blood for his and the people’s sins. This ritual, first in the tabernacle and later in the temple, required repeated bloodshedding. The priest and all ceremonial articles had to be anointed, consecrated, washed with water, and sprinkled with sacrificed blood. When everything was sanctified as the Lord directed, His glory filled the tabernacle (Exodus 40:35). Similarly, in 2 Chronicles 5:13-14, when the temple was dedicated, the priests couldn’t minister because the glory of the Lord filled the house of God. These moments make me think about the importance of stepping aside to let God’s presence fill me, like King David’s cup overflowing in Psalm 23:5.

God’s presence was once distant, accessible only through appointed priests and their services. But now, Hebrews 4 reveals we have a new, better covenant through Christ. The old covenant was temporary, a shadow of the more permanent reality of eternity. Paul encouraged Timothy in 1 Timothy 6:12 to “take hold of eternity,” now made possible by Christ’s sacrificial gift and priestly service when He obediently sacrificed Himself on the cross. Unlike the priests of the old covenant, who served daily with animal blood, Christ’s work is complete, “finished,” allowing Him to sit “at the right hand of the throne of the Majesty in heaven” (Hebrews 8:1).

The tabernacle and law served as educational tools, pointing us to our need for the true High Priest, Christ, justifying us by faith and not by the old tutor, the law (Galatians 3:24-26). The earthly priest and tabernacle were mere symbols of the heavenly Tabernacle, now accessible through Jesus and the Holy Spirit (John 14:17).

Hebrews 8:10-12 promises Israel will also experience this new covenant, writing laws in minds and hearts, ensuring a direct, personal relationship with God. Ezekiel’s prophecies affirm God’s eternal dwelling among His people, promising peace and an everlasting covenant (Ezekiel 37:26-27, 43:7, 9).

As we move beyond the old covenant’s practices, we recognize Jesus as our accessible High Priest, making God near to all. Unlike the fleeting eclipse, experiencing God’s presence doesn’t require travel or special equipment; He’s accessible to everyone, everywhere, always. Jesus invites all to draw near and embrace eternity, making today the day of salvation.

My prayer is that we recognize Jesus as the ultimate High Priest who fulfilled the old covenant with His perfect sacrifice, making God knowable and accessible. May His presence so fill us that we gladly make way for His glory.

Deepening Faith: Reflective Journal Prompts

1. Reflecting on the Eclipse: The eclipse served as a powerful physical reminder of celestial events. How does this event parallel your experience of God’s presence in your life? Have there been moments when you felt you were directly in the “path” of God’s glory?
2. Understanding the Superior Covenant: Reflect on the concept of Jesus as our High Priest and the new covenant He established. How does this understanding change the way you approach God in prayer and worship?
3. The Glory of God’s Presence: Exodus 40:35 and 2 Chronicles 5:13-14 describe God’s glory filling the tabernacle and temple. Imagine yourself in these scenarios. How does the desire for God to fill you with His presence inspire your daily walk with Him?
4. Jesus, the Final Sacrifice: Hebrews 8:1 tells us that Christ’s work is complete, and He sits at the right hand of the throne of Majesty in heaven. What does it mean to you that Jesus’ sacrifice was final and complete? How does this truth affect your understanding of forgiveness and grace?
5. Praying for Israel’s Peace: The post mentions praying for the peace of Jerusalem and the promise of peace God has for Israel. How can you incorporate prayers for Israel into your daily prayer life? Reflect on the importance of praying for the peace and redemption of nations in today’s world.

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