Memorial of Saint
Agnes, virgin and martyr
(Hebrews 5:7:1-3.15-17; Mark 3:1-6)
Much like Paul Bunyan of American folklore, Melchizedek
is a shadowy figure in Scripture. He
visited Abraham in the Book of Genesis, is mentioned in the psalms as an
eternal priest, and makes an appearance in the passage from the Letter to the
Hebrews that is read in today’s mass.
Melchizedek, both the king and priest of Salem, serves as
a prototype for Christ in the eyes of the author of Hebrews. The name is interpreted as meaning “my king
is righteousness.” He is also called the
“king of Salem” which may be translated as “king of peace.” Thus associated with the epitome of justice
and peace, Melchizedek prefigures Jesus, who suffered death rather than betray
righteousness or violate peace. Being presented
both priest and king, Melchizedek again is set as a model for Jesus who sacrificed
himself for the people for whom he also served as the anointed Messiah.
The Letter to the Hebrews has been noted for its balanced
Christology which views Jesus as equally God and man. We may miss in it the references to everyday
life found in Paul’s epistles. Yet we
find an elegance in its verses and a boldness in its allusions that bolster our faith in Jesus.
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