Scripture to Read: Matthew 27:33–56
As we continue our walk through God’s Word, examining all that Christ went through on the cross for us, it is incredibly humbling. We must always remember that our Lord Jesus Christ willingly submitted to our Heavenly Father’s perfect will and laid down His life for all mankind so we could have life through Him (Colossians 3:4). Christ’s willingness to endure the cross and the penalty for the sin of all mankind is the most amazing love ever given. When Christ finally died on the cross (Matthew 27:50–51), we read that the veil in the temple, separating the Holy place from the Holy of Holies, was torn in two from top to bottom. This veil being torn apart is a beautiful picture of God reaching down to man. Through Christ, God the Father opened up His throne room to everyone who surrenders to Christ as Lord so that we have open access to fellowship with Him daily. God also has Matthew write in Matthew 27:52–53 that many of the saints, like Lazarus, were raised from the dead after Christ’s resurrection. God’s Word does not tell us why these saints were raised from the dead, but it may have been to go into Jerusalem (the holy city) to declare the resurrection of Christ on that first resurrection morning. What we do know for sure is that Christ’s death and His shed blood was the final payment required by our Heavenly Father for the cleansing of all sin (Colossians 2:13–14). This is the Good News we must share.
Challenge & Application
· What did God teach you about His love and about His gift of forgiveness offered to all mankind?
· Knowing God has opened up His throne room for us to fellowship with Him, how are you doing that each day?
Don’t forget to pray using the A.C.T.S. (Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving, Supplication) method!