I am sure that the whole world is aware that Pope Benedict XVI has resigned his office. I have had a number of questions in my mind about this over the past few days but since I am not an expert on the inner workings of the Vatican, I will probably only display my ignorance if I commit them to writing!
However, the whole business ought to cause us to appreciate the beauty and supremacy of our Lord Jesus Christ so much more. He alone is adequate to be my mediator before God. Why? Not only because he alone is a flawless High Priest but also because he will never decline in health or renounce his office.
‘Now there have been many of those priests, since death prevented them from continuing in office; but because Jesus lives for ever, he has a permanent priesthood. Therefore he is able to save completely those who come to God through him, because he always lives to intercede for them.’ (Hebrews 7:23-5)
And it is for that reason that we can always approach the throne of grace with confidence (Hebrews 4:16), regardless of any human inadequacy whether it be physical or moral.
Yours thankfully
Simon