by Jordyn van Gaalen

The Curtain Has Been Torn

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Therefore, brothers and sisters, since we have confidence to enter the Most Holy Place by the blood of Jesus, by a new and living way opened for us through the curtain, that is, his body, and since we have a great priest over the house of God, let us draw near to God with a sincere heart and with the full assurance that faith brings, having our hearts sprinkled to cleanse us from a guilty conscience and having our bodies washed with pure water. Hebrews 10:19-22 NIV

How would you describe the time when you enter your time of prayer, when you lay your heart before God? 

The Most Holy Place was the inner sanctuary of the tabernacle where the ark of the covenant was kept. It was the place where the very presence of God dwelled. The Most Holy Place was separated from the rest of the tabernacle by a large veil, guarding the people from accessing the Ark of the Covenant and coming into the presence of God. 

That veil, that curtain, has been torn by the blood of Jesus.

When the veil was torn, God the Father became accessible to us. Our sin kept us from the presence of a Holy, Perfect God. Because of the sacrifice of Jesus, we can enter that impenetrable place where God dwells. And we can enter it with confidence. Jesus became the intercessor, taking on our punishment, in order that we could have life with God. We can communicate with God and we can have an intimate relationship with Him. 

Let us draw near to Christ with a sincere heart and the full assurance of faith. We have been made pure, by the final cleansing of Jesus. Yes, we have eternal life forever with our Savior and God. But let us not forget that the curtain has been torn. We can walk with God in this earthly life. We draw near to Christ, inviting Him into our every day. Because of Jesus’ sacrifice, we can be in prayer and communication with God as we wash the dishes, walk the dog, and interact with our family and friends. 

Copyright Holy Cross Lutheran Church, Colorado Springs, Colorado