Since, then, we have a great high priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus, the Son of God, let us hold fast to our confession. For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who in every respect has been tested as we are, yet without sin. Let us therefore approach the throne of grace with boldness, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need.

In the days of his flesh, Jesus offered up prayers and supplications, with loud cries and tears, to the one who was able to save him from death, and he was heard because of his reverent submission. Although he was a Son, he learned obedience through what he suffered; and having been made perfect, he became the source of eternal salvation for all who obey him

Somewhere I remember hearing that the original meaning of the word "priest" meant "on the Godward side." So I assume that a priest is one who stands on the side of the people to lead them in the direction of God. We are asked to be priests to lead and guide others in the right direction. We are asked to be priests to lead people toward God. We are to influence people in the right direction. We would like to help people be closer to God, to be more "spiritual," to know him who made us. But we don't do a very good job. The writer of the book of Hebrews points to Jesus as the great high priest. He is one of us, but way out ahead of us. The writer encourages us to come to this great high priest because we are connected and he understands.