And, behold, the veil of the temple was rent in twain from the top to the bottom; and the earth did quake, and the rocks rent (Matt. 27:51 KJV)
The veil of the Temple was the curtain that separated the holy place of the Temple from the most holy place or holy of holies containing the ark of the covenant. God’s presence amongst the people was dwelling in the holy of holies and this innermost room of the Temple was therefore diligently kept consecrated and sacred. No one, except the high priest in special occasions once a year, was allowed to enter in to make an atonement for the sins of the people.
As long as worship continued in the Temple, there was a clear spiritual indication that man is still separated from God by sin. However, Matt. 27:51 gives us a glorious account of the events that occurred at 3 pm on the day that Jesus died. The scripture says there was darkness over the entire land from noon until 3pm as the Son of God took upon Himself the sins of the entire world. He suffered and died for our sins. When He died, the veil of the Temple was torn and the the entrance to the holy of holies was made open for everyone. I always try to imagine the commotion amongst the priests in the holy place as they saw this veil torn exposing the ark of the covenant. God’s presence is now accessible to all humanity through the suffering and death of Christ on the cross.
MEDITATE
Did Jesus suffer and die for the sins of the Church only or for the whole world? ( 1 Jo. 2:2). Declare that “The veil is torn and I have been brought into God’s presence. I am the living Temple of God on the earth!”
APPLY THE WORD
Be conscious of this reality. You are the Temple of God. Cherish and honor His presence with a lifestyle of holiness and righteousness.
PRAY
Thank the Lord for paying the full price for all of your sins and making you His holy Temple.
Recommended Read: The Tabernacle and You
Foundational Read: What is a Daily Devotional?
