Scripture
Hebrews 10:19-22 (NKJV)
Therefore, brethren, having boldness to enter the Holiest by the blood of Jesus, by a new and living way which He consecrated for us, through the veil, that is, His flesh, and having a High Priest over the house of GOD, let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience and our bodies washed with pure water.
Meditation
In the days of Moses the Most Holy Place in the temple was sealed by a veil that was tall in height, thick in diameter, and beautifully woven with colors of blue, purple, and scarlet thread. Though the veil was beautiful it served as a barrier to keep everyone out of this “Holy Place.” The veil was situated between the holy place and the Most Holy Place, referred to as the “Holy of Holies.” It was where the presence of God resided. The veil was a reminder to them that no one was to ever approach this Holy Place except once a year on the Day of Atonement when the high priest could enter to offer a sacrifice for the sins of the nation. That of course was Old Testament belief. Thank God for the transition through Jesus Christ, who submitted to the will of GOD and died on the cross, becoming the final and ultimate sacrifice, finishing GOD’s work of salvation. No more will people have to sacrifice lambs, goats or bulls to atone for their sins. The New Testament writer Matthew amplifies what Jesus did and gives us hope in the recording of his gospel account, Matthew, Chapter 27, verse 50, 51. 50 “And Jesus cried again with a loud voice and yielded up his spirit.” 51 And, behold, the veil of the temple was torn in two, from top to bottom; and the earth shook, and the rocks were split.” The veil was “split, not by the work of man, but by God. The veil was “split” for you, and I. Split” by the shedding of His blood and the sacrificing of His body. His shed blood washed away our sins. His body was broken for us so that we might enter the Most Holy Place. Our entry into the Most Holy Place now gives us unlimited access to God. Paul, the writer of our text reminds us with the death of Jesus we have a new way to God. And since we have access to God, verse 22 states “let us draw near to God.” “Draw near” means to pray. There is a deep joy in drawing near to God. Because of Jesus, we can now enter into His Holy Place, no more barriers, no more hinderances, not even our sins can keep us from drawing near to Him. I stand in agreement with the lyrics of Elvina Hall’s hymn “Jesus paid it all, all to Him I owe.”
Therefore, we can enter the Most Holy Place with confidence and faith by the blood of Jesus and obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need (Hebrews 4:16).
We can go to GOD in prayer at any time. Let nothing stop you or block you. His arms are open and ready to receive you.
Prayer
Most Holy and gracious Father, we are grateful for your love and your amazing grace that is far beyond our ability to comprehend, and for granting us entry into your Presence, for in your Presence there is fullness of joy, at your right hand are pleasures forevermore. We thank you LORD for being a GOD that is always with us, for you are our strength and our defense, an ever-present help in times of trouble. Wherever we are you are always there. Your love never quits, it endures forever! We rejoice in the blessed privilege to know you because of the sacrifice of your Son, our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Teach us to come before you humbly and with confidence. Please bless us now in this time of devotion with you and we’ll be careful to give you all the praise, the honor, and the glory, in Jesus’ Name we pray, Amen.
Call to Action
During this Lenten season be intentional about entering the Lord’s gates with thanksgiving and His courts with praise. Seek a personal relationship with the Lord by devoting quiet time in His presence through meditation and prayer. This will help you draw near to GOD with confidence and a sincere heart, and He will draw near to you. Let us hold fast the confession of our hope, for He who has promised is trustworthy and faithful to His Word; and let us thoughtfully consider how we may encourage one another to love and do good works.