The sermon continues with great discussion about worship, the differences between the old and new covenant practices, and we can see behind the curtain of how it all works. I’m not sure how the preacher/author got all this information, but I have to believe it was divinely provided so that we would understand how Jesus’ sacrifice changes everything.
The preacher would know that his audience would struggle and benefit greatly from an encounter with God. Speaking of how God is more attainable now that the great chasm of sin and separateness has been filled by our relationship with Jesus Christ.
We’re given a glimpse into the tabernacle system that the high priests descending from Aaron would have used to handle worship and forgiveness. It looks so unfamiliar. Moses was given such detailed instructions so he could recreate on earth the Holy Place that already existed in heaven. For generations, this was the location used by the priests until something better was available. Something better indeed.
Of course, with Jesus as our high priest, he has returned to the heavenly throne of God, the original Most Holy Place that exists forever. Because Jesus’ shed blood was the perfect sacrifice, his death on the cross only happens once, and forgiveness now covers all sins, even future sins.
Before Jesus, life and forgiveness were entirely different. It sounds like Moses sprinkled everything with sacrificial blood. The preacher says, “In fact, according to the law of Moses, nearly everything was purified with blood. For without the shedding of blood, there is no forgiveness.” Now we say, without Jesus, there is no forgiveness. Jesus’ blood has purified our path to the Father.
I had never really reflected on the fact that the tabernacle built and used on earth was but a replica of what exists in heaven. Is there a curtain there, too? It’s the holy place where the throne of God resides. It’s a forever kind of place fit for a king, our high priest. It’s where we can encounter God in a tangible way.
We must marvel at the majesty and power of Jesus’ blood. In the words of the preacher, “But now, once for all time, he has appeared at the end of the age to remove sin by his own death as a sacrifice.” Can you believe what he did for us? How do you respond to Jesus’ deliverance?
We can be sure we’ll see Jesus again face-to-face. Whether it’s when he returns or when we “go home,” it is the hope believers cling to every day. We don’t need to fear his return; in fact, many are waiting with eager expectation. This time, his coming will be different. “He will come again, not to deal with our sins, but to bring salvation to all who are eagerly waiting for him.” Jesus will recognize those who are eager for his return. Lord knows I’ve frequently said, “Come, Lord Jesus. Come.”
Let’s pray. Lord Jesus, you are welcome to return sooner than later, if I could have my way. But then it is your will that I want more than anything. You have promised to return, so I am confident you will when the time is right. I expectantly wait and trust you, my high priest and king. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
