Christ’s Passion

Christ’s Passion

And so, dear brothers and sisters, we can boldly enter heaven’s Most Holy Place because of the blood of Jesus. This is the new, life-giving way that Christ has opened up for us through the sacred curtain, by means of his death for us. And since we have a great High Priest who rules over God’s people, let us go right into the presence of God, with true hearts fully trusting him. For our evil consciences have been sprinkled with Christ’s blood to make us clean, and our bodies have been washed with pure water.

Hebrews 10:19-22

What kind of window coverings do you use in your home? My favorites are the floral valances hanging in my living room. When my family first moved into our home, the valances helped pull all of our colors together. And when we repainted our walls taupe, my neighbor suggested tea-staining the valances to get a new effect. It worked nicely, so the valances are still hanging.

During the time that Jesus was on earth, a heavy curtain hung in the Temple and separated the Holy Place (which only priests could enter) from the Most Holy Place (which only the high priest could enter, and then only once a year to make amends for the sins of the people). This curtain holds a significant place in the story of Jesus’ crucifixion.

Matthew 27:50-53 explains that at the very moment Jesus died, while an earthquake opened some graves and saints rose from the dead, the curtain in the temple was torn from top to bottom! Only God could have done that. This Passion event holds great symbolism for us: Since that moment when the curtain was torn, the way to God has been opened. All of us may come to him.

The curtain is no longer necessary. There is no more need for temples, altars, or animal sacrifices, because Jesus—through his death for our sins—provided the way to God. This is huge! Any person who has trusted in Christ’s death and resurrection can communicate directly with God—anytime and anywhere. Have you placed your faith in Christ’s death for your sin on the cross? Are you enjoying the access Christ offers you to the presence of God?

Father,

Thank you for the image of a torn curtain, reminding us that if we place our faith in Jesus’ death and resurrection, nothing holds us back from communicating directly with you. In Jesus’ name, amen.