The Bestest Priest

For every high priest chosen from among men is appointed to act on behalf of men in relation to God, to offer gifts and sacrifices for sins. 2 He can deal gently with the ignorant and wayward, since he himself is beset with weakness. 3 Because of this he is obligated to offer sacrifice for his own sins just as he does for those of the people. 4 And no one takes this honor for himself, but only when called by God, just as Aaron was.

5 So also Christ did not exalt himself to be made a high priest, but was appointed by him who said to him,

“You are my Son,
    today I have begotten you”;

6 as he says also in another place,

“You are a priest forever,
    after the order of Melchizedek.”

7 In the days of his flesh, Jesus offered up prayers and supplications, with loud cries and tears, to him who was able to save him from death, and he was heard because of his reverence. 8 Although he was a son, he learned obedience through what he suffered. 9 And being made perfect, he became the source of eternal salvation to all who obey him, 10 being designated by God a high priest after the order of Melchizedek. (Hebrews 5)

God had his servant write this message to the Hebrews, who knew priests well - not only through the long line of priests since the days of Moses, but all the way back to Melchizedek, who was a unique kind of priest. He kind of showed up from out of nowhere, not having a long lasting "post" as priest, but He was a priest to Abram, the father of faith, at a critical point in his journey. This priest became in a sense, a special standard by which all priests in biblical history are measured.  He is the one who the Psalmist compared the Messiah too: unique, a King and a Priest, Who would only "serve" for a short time on earth, yet have an ongoing and great impact.  This Priest would not only understand man, being one of us, but also understand God better than any other, for He is God's Son. As Priest, Christ represents us before God. While on earth, He did so through long, agonizing sessions along with God, as well as praying with His disciples and for many in need. Now He talks with the Father on our behalf, sitting at His right hand. He is the bestest Priest ever - in history and in eternity.