Getting to Know Jesus by Name #28: Great High Priest

Hebrews 4:14 Since then we have a great high priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus, the Son of God, let us hold fast our confession. 15 For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who in every respect has been tempted as we are, yet without sin. 16 Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need.

Jesus is our Great High Priest.  The High Priest had "special authority to lead or perform religious ceremonies."*  Once a year the high priest would offer sacrifice on behalf of all of God's people.  The emphasis in Hebrews is on how in everything Christ did, it was superior.  His sacrifice was once for all time.  He also is the greater High Priest, because He passed through the heavens, on His way from and back to heaven.  He is the Greatest High Priest, being God Himself, and, on the other side of things, He has lived here among us so He can completely understand us as He stands before the Father on our behalf. If you haven't noticed yet, every Name of Jesus tells us something not only about Him, buy also ourselves. His names mean something about our response.  Our response to our Great High Priest should be to come before Him often with our requests, ready to receive the mercy and grace we need and only He can offer. 

*(Diann Cotton: 100 Days with Jesus)