The author of Hebrews felt that God's covenant with Israel was obsolete. But St Paul and St John Paul II would both disagree. As Pope, John Paul II used to refer to God's 'covenant with the Jewish people that has never been revoked.' We can think of the new covenant as a new edition that is more inclusive rather than less. We should focus on the point of the text: we will no longer have to ask about God, because we shall be able to know God personally. This is a wonderful gift and is meant for all. God's revelation always moves towards greater riches and more inclusivity - God is compassionate and generous. We should strive to be the same!

Out of all those who followed Jesus, he appointed only 12 to be apostles and to bear the sort of power and authority needed for the proclamation of the gospel. On the surface, these 12 were not an impressive lot - they had many weaknesses, and in his hour of need they let Jesus down badly and even denied him. Could he have chose better men? Certainly - but the ones he chose have a powerful message for us. They were ordinary folks, with lots of faults and weaknesses - but God accomplished marvellous deeds through them. So it is with us - we might feel unworthy to serve God, but it's not our show! God can and will do wonderful things through us if only we will be humble enough to allow it. Serving God is not about being perfect but being willing.