Pre-feast of Theophany. Holy Prophet Malachi (5th c. BC). Holy Martyr Gordius (313-24).
Hebrews 9:8-10,15-23; Mark 8:22-26.
Read Hebrews 9:8-10,15-23
Christ is born! Glorify Him!
The Epistle to the Hebrews is an interesting reflection on the importance and significance of the incarnation of the Son of God. St. Paul recognizes that the Old Covenant worship—even though it is God inspired—does not have the power to perfect the conscience, bring the worshipper into the sanctuary of God, nor bring about the inheritance of the eternal Kingdom to the people of God. For these reasons the Old Testament is only a foreshadowing and precursor of that which is to come. A reformation of the Old Covenant is required and it is to be reformed by a new eternal High Priest, who is a mediator between God and humanity. This Covenant, or will as St. Paul puts it today, as in the Old Testament so the New is sealed and ratified by blood—the blood of the Son of God’s sacrifice on the cross, who not only is the Eternal High Priest, but also is the new Moses for all of humanity.