torn Open

John 19:30 When he had received the drink, Jesus said, “It is finished.” With that, he bowed his head and gave up his spirit.
 
Mark 15:38-39 The curtain of the temple was torn in two from top to bottom. 39 And when the centurion, who stood there in front of Jesus, heard his cry and saw how he died, he said, “Surely this man was the Son of God!”
 
GOD commanded the Jews’ to build a first temple in the Exodus desert. The Tent of Meeting was a moveable structure made of curtains and acacia poles. God instructed that within the tent there would be two inner sanctuaries called The Holy Place and the Most Holy Place. In the Most Holy Place was the ark of  the covenant. On top of the ark was the Mercy Seat, where God would dwell. A curtain divided God’s holy presence from the congregation: Exodus 26:33 The curtain will separate the Holy Place from the Most Holy Place. To enter the Most Holy Place – also called the Holy of Holies – a chosen priest had to complete a series of repentance and purification rites on the annual Day of Atonement. Representing all of Israel, the priest would enter and offer specific sacrifices and prayers for the repentance and forgiveness of Israel’s sins. Anyone who casually entered into the Most Holy Place would die. God’s holiness commands a worshipful approach to his throne.
   When Jesus cried out, “It is finished!” he announced this old covenant of sacrifice is complete. God then tore the curtain of separation from the top down. The Son of God is the final sacrifice. The Lamb of God has removed your sins when you confess him, “My Lord and Savior.” Through his atoning death Jesus became the High Priest who continually prays for you before the Father. God has torn the curtain and opened the way for your loving, accessible relationship with him. In faith, you can rejoice, “Jesus is my personal Lord and Savior.”
   Please understand this is a very personal confession of a redeeming relationship with the Triune God. Your confession tells the world you have a loving, fruitful relationship with God. You want people to know you enjoy the benefits of the Spirit to help you know the Son and Father.
   When Jesus is your personal Lord, you know you are continually in God’s presence. You believe he is always with you through your faithful prayers of confession, intercession and supplication. Your ongoing obedience honors God’s will. A personal relationship with Jesus is the privilege to call the Holy God, “My Father in heaven.”
   Long ago the Holy God commanded the Jews to come to him in reverent submission. He has not changed. Keep in mind it is in God’s tender mercies we can call Jesus, “Brother.” and we can call God, “Father.” Always approach him with gratitude he has finished the work he came to do.