In referring to two separate verses from the book of Psalms (Psalm 2:7, “’You are my Son, today I have begotten you’”; and Psalm 110:4, “You are a priest forever, according to the order of Melchizedek.”), the author of Hebrews considers who Jesus is and what Jesus does. Jesus is the Son of God, whose entry into earthly life exposed him to both the height and depth of human emotion and experience. Despite fear, pain, and desperation; despite moments when he wanted to give up; despite the anguish of feeling forsaken, Jesus never questioned God’s goodness and mercy. As God’s Son, he could have said, “No more. Stop this. Let them figure this out on their own.” Instead, he said, “Not my will, but yours be done.”
Jesus knew that we could not figure this out on our own. He knew that only through his suffering could we be reconciled to the One who gives us life and be restored to one another.
Think of a situation you cannot seem to fix. Maybe it is a difficult relationship. Maybe it is a feeling of sadness or hopelessness, fear or anxiety. Maybe it is a medical issue. Maybe it is a question of identity or lack of meaning. Maybe it is financial or job insecurity. Whatever it is, offer it to God and pray, “Not my will, but yours be done.” Each time you think of this situation in the coming week, say the same prayer. Trust that Jesus, as your mediator – your high priest before God, will advocate on your behalf for healing and peace.