Devotions For Lent – Day 17

Paradise Re-opened

“Behold, the dwelling place of God is with man. He will dwell with them, and they will be His people, and God Himself will be with them as their God.”     (Revelation 21:3).

Read Matthew 13:13-17.

Embroidered on the tapestry of the veil was a panorama of the heavens. When the veil was torn, the message was clear: paradise re-opened! This was foreshadowed 3 years earlier at Jesus’ baptism. When He came up out of the Jordan River’s waters, the heavens were torn open and God spoke, “This is My beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased” (Matthew 3:17). Then at the cross, as Jesus took His last breath, the veil was torn open and the centurion declared, “Truly, this man was the Son of God!” (Mark 15:39).

These two events are connected by one message: the life and sacrifice of Jesus pleases His Father. Paradise is open again for those who call Jesus their Lord and their Brother. Reflect on a time that heaven seemed closed or that God seemed distant, and give Him thanks that paradise is open to you, now and always.

Prayer Starter:
Jesus, You are the Son of God! I declare it with joy! You alone are . . .