Read: Hebrews 10:11-23
We have confidence to enter the holy places by the blood of Jesus. (v. 19)
My first sleepover did not go according to plan. The friend who invited me lived in a big house, with video games, the latest toys, and cable television. The night started out well. We played with his toys and games, and we watched a movie. But at bedtime, an unfamiliar feeling started to grow in the pit of my stomach. I was homesick! My friend’s mom called my dad, and he brought me home.
Ever since the fall into sin, humanity has been separated from our true home. We were made for the presence of God in heaven, but heaven was out of our reach. In his mercy, God provided his original covenant people with practices that made them feel close to him. But these practices anticipated a time when there would be no distance at all between heaven and earth. During his earthly ministry, Jesus invited his disciples to follow him home. When they asked, “How can we know the way?” he replied, “I am the way” (John 14:5-6). Jesus came not to make a way, but to be the way. The author of Hebrews argues that the crucified Jesus is the sacrifice to end all sacrifices. And that the ascended Jesus is the Great High Priest. By his own crucified and ascended body, Jesus has opened a new way “through the curtain” between heaven and earth. We now have complete confidence. Whenever we long for home, all we have to do is call on Jesus. Heaven is listening, and waiting for us.
As you pray, picture Jesus making a way for you to come home.
About the Author
Ben Van Arragon is a preacher and writer based in Grand Rapids, Michigan. He preaches and teaches the Bible in church, online, and anywhere else he has the opportunity.
