“Now this is the main point of the things we are saying: We have such a High Priest, who is seated at the right hand of the throne of the Majesty in the heavens, a Minister of the sanctuary and of the true tabernacle which the Lord erected, and not man” (Hebrews 8:1-2).
An essential prerequisite of gratitude is an accurate inventory of and insight into one’s blessings. This one-sentence summary of the blessings each Christian has in his risen and ascended Savior deserves thoughtful consideration.
We… Every single Christian; no one is excluded.
Have… Currently and continuously throughout the rest of human history, this reality ever exists.
Such… Of this class or kind (i.e., holy, harmless, undefiled, separate from sinners).
A High Priest… One who has brought into the presence of God an acceptable atoning sacrifice for human sin.
Who is seated… Having completed the required work of atonement, there no longer is anything needing to be done in this facet of His office.
At the right hand of the throne… He is both king and priest, just as Melchizedek was and just as David prophesied.
Of the Majesty in the heavens… Through His atoning sacrifice He conquered evil and was therefore given all authority in heaven and on earth upon His ascension to heaven.
A Minister of the sanctuary… His work as King-Priest is performed free of charge to the recipients because He ever serves at His own expense, unlike the Old Testament High Priests.
And of the true tabernacle which the Lord erected and not man. His work is not done in a replica of the real thing; rather He personally works in the august and glorious presence of God in heaven.
This single sentence gives sufficient and sizable reasons to be thankful.
