The Torn Veil

The Torn Veil

“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.”

Hebrews 10:19-20 NIV

In the Temple at Jerusalem, a thick veil separated the Holy Place from the Most Holy Place where God’s presence dwelled. This wasn’t just a curtain but a boundary. In Exodus 26, God instructed this design of the veil to show that He desired to be near His people, however His holiness could not be approached casually. Sin created separation and the veil made that visible.

Only the high priest could pass through it. Once a year, on the Day of Atonement, they carried a sacrifice for sin. Access to God was limited and forgiveness required a cost.

Everything changed at the cross. Matthew 27 tells us the moment Jesus died the veil was torn from top to bottom. This could not have been by human hands but by God himself. What once stood as a barrier was suddenly removed. Access was opened by the sacrifice of Jesus. Blood once had to be carried behind the veil yearly now has been offered once and for all.

Hebrews 10 explains that Jesus became both the perfect sacrifice and the perfect High Priest. Animal sacrifices were offered daily and yearly because they could not take sins away but cover them temporarily. Jesus’s sacrifice fully atones for sins forever removing the guilt and penalty of sin. Jesus’s blood is complete with no need of further offering or sacrifice. The veil was established, the veil is torn and we are told what it means. God is intentional with timelines - separation, anticipation then access.

Because of Jesus, we don’t have to guess if we are allowed to come to God. We don’t need a middleman to be present where God dwells. We can come directly, boldly and vulnerable. We don’t stand at a distance but are invited in. Not with fear but confidence. Not because we are perfect but because He made a way. He covered what separated us. The curtain is gone. The way is open. You are invited!

Reflection:

Do you approach God with hesitation, feel unsure or reach for Him like the veil is still there?

How can you live this week with the confidence to come boldly into God’s presence?

Prayer:

Thank you Lord, for giving us access to you through Jesus Christ with out separation? Help me to stop holding back and come near to You with confidence and trust. Remind me daily that the way to you is open and I have a VIP ticket to your throne. Your access is not due to what I have done but what You have done for me. Thank you for this gift! Praise be to the 3:1.

Keep Praying,

Lesley Henry