What is a priest?
A priest is a mediator between the divine and the human. It is one who connects the things of God with the things of this world in an act of ministry. For some, a priest has been known as a bridge builder - taking on the active task of connecting people to each other and to God. While there are many activities of ritual which faciliatate this, it is also a task of caring. It is only when people care about each other that the priestly activity of mediation finds is true place.
A priest is a changer, one who strives to transform their surroundings. By connecting people with God the priest helps individuals move from what they are into what they are to become. The work of Christ is seen in the way people are changed as they approach the throne. When individuals are changed, the world around them also changes. The priest is the divine tracker who discloses the traces of God in human life.
A priest sacrifices. In almost every religion the practice of sacrificing is reserved for the priestly figure. The same is true in the biblical office of priest. The uniqueness of the Christian priest is that rather than sacrificing an animal for atonement, we sacrifice ourselves. Jesus began this act by giving of himself and now calls each believer to do likewise. Rather than sacrificing folks around us (which many people inevitably do), we must lay down ourselves first.
A priest heals. This is another activity of the holy. By mediating the divine and human, working for change, and being self-sacrificial the priest is able to faciliate the healing of many hurts. It is truly a shame that such a powerful and needed ministry has been so reserved for and perverted by those who search only for 'miracle-curing' rather than true healing. The priest sends each person away with a confidence and a wholeness.
The image that Hebrews draws of Jesus is very human and comforting. The description of the High Priest explains the essence of Jesus and calls each of his followers to do likewise. Pope John Paul II exhibited a true Christlike character to the benefit of our world. He will be remembered as one of the great leaders of the church and a true priest.
We are each called to be a priesthood of believers.
One of our best has now joined the highest.
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