Curtain

Jesus shouted again with a loud voice and gave up His spirit.  Suddenly, the curtain of the sanctuary was split in two from top to bottom; the earth quaked and the rocks were split.  Matthew 27:50-51 HCSB

In biblical times, the temple in Jerusalem was the center of Jewish religious life.  It was where animal sacrifices were carried out.  It was also the location of the earthly dwelling place of God’s presence, better known as the Holy of Holies.  A large curtain separated the Holy of Holies from the rest of the temple.  Only the high priest was allowed to pass through this curtain and enter the presence of God, and he could only do so once a year.

The curtain was a constant reminder that sin renders humanity as unfit for the presence of God.  Fortunately, at the moment of Jesus’ death, the curtain was torn in two from top to bottom.  Jesus, through His death, removed the barrier between God and man.  Now, because of His grace, we have permission to enter the presence of the Lord with confidence.

Thank You, Lord, for Your grace, which has made a way for us to enter Your presence.