privilege of being a priest

I finished reading Leviticus, and I am a few chapters into Numbers.  I am reminded of how rigorous and complex the codes of righteousness were for the Israelites.  I am reminded of how formal the procedure was to even enter the holy place, and how it was nearly impossible to actually enter the most holy place and be in the presence of God.  Even the Kohathites (the clan of Levites who were responsible for transporting the sacred items of the tabernacle) were not allowed to see the sacred items until after they had been double-wrapped with blue cloth and hides of sea cows (Numb. 4:15-20).

However, in Christ, we are royal priests (1 Peter 2:9), and we are invited and encouraged to boldly enter the presence of God:

Heb. 4:14 Therefore, since we have a great high priest who has ascended into heaven,f Jesus the Son of God, let us hold firmly to the faith we profess. 15 For we do not have a high priest who is unable to empathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are—yet he did not sin. 16 Let us then approach God's throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.

Heavenly Father, thank you for Jesus, our Great High Priest who has made open access to your presence.  Holy Spirit, thank you for the privilege of being a priest; help me grow in understanding of that identity and proficiency of serving in that role.  I love you, and I pray in the name of Jesus.