Hebrews 9:8
"The Holy Spirit indicating this, that the way into the Holiest of All was not yet made manifest while the first temple was still standing."
The author of Hebrews reminds us that sinful humanity could not enter into the holiest part of the tabernacle, the Holiest of Holies, without a sacrifice. Even then, only the priest could enter, and only once a year, bearing the sins of the people upon his body. This was the Spirit's way of indicating to us that while the tabernacle still stood, we still needed a way to rightfully enter God's presence. We still needed someone to stand on our behalf, qualifying us for entry.
Of course, that someone was the person of Jesus Christ, and the something that he gave us for authorization is the shed blood of Christ, given as a sacrifice for our sins on the cross of Calvary. Just as the priest brought in a symbolic sacrifice once a year, every time we come before God in prayer, we come bearing the sacrifice of Christ. With the Spirit's touch upon our lives, we receive our ticket in.
Years ago, my son and I stood in a long line for a football game held in the Alamo Bowl Dome at San Antonio, waiting to buy tickets. We knew we couldn't just walk in without a ticket. Unexpectedly, before we reached the kiosk, a man offered us his tickets for free. He made the trip to the stadium just to give his tickets to someone just like us. We gladly accepted them, thanked him profusely, and entered the game at no cost. In the same way that accepting these free tickets allowed us in, the Spirit is offering us entrance to God's presence. All we have to do is accept God's freely given offer.
And while there were some strings attached with the tickets we accepted, for we had to sit where they indicated, we still gladly accepted these conditions. And with our Lord's offer, he also come conditions, with Christ demanding our worship, our allegiance, our obedience. But for those who have come to faith, they will tell you this condition is small compared to the glorious riches we have in Christ.
The Spirit indicates we need a way in, and that way is provided in Jesus Christ.
LORD JESUS
Lord, I thank you indicating through your Spirit a new way for us to enter into your presence. I accept your offer and commit my life to showing others your love for them. Amen.
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