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There is a quiet tension that many congregations feel. On the one hand, we confess with confidence that the Holy Spirit “works faith, when and where it pleases God” (Augsburg Confession, Article V). On the other hand, we look around our sanctuaries, see the shrinking attendance, and wonder: Are we doing enough? Are we reaching anyone beyond ourselves? Should we be trying something different?

The sight of blood makes many people squeamish. It’s not an everyday sight for most. If you live on the farm, are a butcher, or a hunter, you are accustomed to it more than most. But blood is central to God’s plan of redemption. It’s there throughout the Old Testament and there in the New Testament, especially in the book of Hebrews.

“We wish to see Jesus.” That’s what they said. But why? What had they heard? What did they want? Much had been made of this Jesus. Word had spread. He cast out demons. He healed the sick. He even raised dead people back to life—one named Lazarus. It’s no wonder people wanted to see Him, hear Him, and if they could, touch Him. “Sir, we wish to see Jesus!”