“And when Jesus had cried out again in a loud voice, he gave up his spirit. At that moment the curtain of the temple was torn in two from top to bottom.”
—Matthew 27:50-51a NIV

There is no doubt that Jesus’ life profoundly impacted history. The calendar itself is divided into two parts: before and after his birth.

But the impact of the life and death of Jesus goes well beyond the way we count years: it also fundamentally transformed the way we can relate to God.

At the moment that Jesus died on the Cross “the curtain of the temple was torn in two from top to bottom” (Matthew 27:51 NIV). That curtain was what divided the rest of the temple from the “Most Holy Place,” where the Ark of the Covenant was and where the tangible presence of God dwelt. Only the High Priest could enter that place without dying, and he could only do it once a year.

When Jesus died, the division between God and humanity disappeared and people received direct access to his presence.

As Hebrews 10:19 and 22 (NIV) say, “Therefore, brothers and sisters, since we have confidence to enter the Most Holy Place by the blood of Jesus, . . . let us draw near to God with a sincere heart and with the full assurance that faith brings.”

It’s simple: thanks to Jesus we have direct access to God.

Remember that today and enter his presence with confidence.

Here is a simple prayer to carry with you today:

Breathe in: God,
Breathe out: I want to be with you.