I struggled for a long time to understand what the whole of verse 9 means. The first part is ok, but what does the second part mean? Let me try my own translation of the verse, maybe it will be more understandable then.

You, o Jesus, have always loved what is right and you really don’t like things that are wrong. That is why our great God, your Father, anointed You with oil. This caused much joy. You were appointed in a much higher position than the others who work with You.

Remember, chapter 1 of Hebrews introduces Jesus to the readers. Jesus’ characteristics are listed one by one. Here we get to know Jesus as the Lord of justice. He stands for what is right and that is how we got to know Him in the dusty streets on earth.

He only did what was right. He healed people. He helped people who were on their way to eternal damnation to turn around and get on the right road. He showed God to us. He showed what love is, and obviously He never sinned.

But we learn much more about Jesus. God himself anointed Jesus in a position that is far higher than any of those who work with Him. He was appointed higher than his followers. Even higher than any priest, prophet or king.

There is no one greater than Jesus. There is no one higher than Him. As the saying goes: “The buck stops here”.  And this is kind of old news, because the Psalms shouted this news long ago. Look how beautifully Psalm 97 confirms this verse:

¹God rules: there’s something to shout over!
On the double, main lands and islands—celebrate!

²Bright clouds and storm clouds circle ’round him;
Right and justice anchor his rule.

³Fire blazes out before him,
Flaming high up the craggy mountains.

⁴His lightning light up the world;
Earth, wide-eyed, trembles in fear.

⁵The mountains take one look at God
And melt, melt like wax before earth’s Lord.

⁶The heavens announce that he’ll set everything right,
And everyone will see it happen—glorious!

^7-8All who serves handcrafted gods will be sorry—
And they were so proud of their ragamuffin gods!

On your knees, all you gods—worship him!
And Zion, you listen and take heart!

Daughters of Zion, sing your hearts out:
God has done it all, has set everything right.

⁹You, God, are High God of the cosmos,
Far, far higher than any of the gods.

¹⁰God loves all who hate evil,
And those who love him he keeps safe,
Snatches them from the grip of the wicked.

¹¹Light-seeds are planted in the souls of God’s people,
Joy-seeds are planted in good heart-soil.

¹²So, God’s people, shout praise to God,
Give thanks to our Holy God!

Wow!

Jesus, our Lord, You are almighty and You are in control. Let our fires burn high and let us celebrate, because we are the children of the almighty Jesus.

Scripture
Hebrews 1:7-14

Reflection
What does Jesus’ greatness do to you?
How can others see Jesus’ greatness in you?
Who can you go and tell how great Jesus really is?

Prayer
Jesus, You are the great God. God the Father appointed You and gave You a place of honour above all the other great ones. And You love me? You know my name? I am so honoured that You love me as your child. My cup of joy runs over! Amen.