today's other readings are Psalm 85 and Mk. 3: 13-19
For a while now as our 1st reading has lead us through the letter to the Hebrews, the unknown author of the letter has focused on the priesthood of Jesus. Yesterday we heard of how His priesthood is intercessory; today the focus is how He is the High Priest of a new covenant.
There were many covenants set up in the past - with Noah, Abraham and Moses, for example. They were promises made by God and in turn, God's people. But God's people frequently turned their backs on God and would not do their own part in these covenants. God, in the time of the Prophet Jeremiah (Jer. 31: 31-34) (which the author quotes in today's passage), God the Father speaks of new covenant to come. The covenant which God speaks of, has now, as the author of Hebrews rightly asserts, is now fully realized in the ministry and priesthood of Jesus Christ, and is existing today. God has set up that relationship with us. We, in turn, are called to respond - with our hearts, our faith and the gracious living out of the countess gifts and talents He has given to us.