The Daily Office for January 11, 2012
Scriptures
Psalm 19:1-24
Genesis 4:1-16
Hebrews 2:11-18
John 1:29-42
Reading (Hebrews 2:11-18)
Reflection
Christ’s absolute identity with humanity is stressed several times in these verses. First, Christ as the sanctifier and we as those sanctified are identified as all of one. This does not suggest that we are out of the same source, but that we are of the same nature or stock. We possess a common humanity. Second, we are called brethren. And He is not ashamed to call us brothers. He does not regard us as “poor relations,” nor was His becoming a man a patronizing condescension. He is not ashamed to be identified with us. How could we ever be ashamed of Him?
The second reason given as to why it was necessary for Christ to suffer is now provided. He must suffer even to death in order to destroy the power and fear of death. The word translated destroy (Gr katargeō) does not convey the thought of annihilation, nor has Satan been destroyed in that sense. The word means “to make inoperative” or “ineffective.” Through His resurrection from death, Christ broke the hold which Satan possessed over humanity.
Collect of the Day
Eternal Father, who at the baptism of Jesus revealed him to be your Son, anointing him with the Holy Spirit: grant to us, who are born again by water and the Spirit, that we may be faithful to our calling as your adopted children; through Jesus Christ your Son our Lord, who is alive and reigns with you, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.