Devotions For Lent – Day 3

The Veil

“The veil shall separate for you the Holy Place from the Most Holy.”
(Exodus 26:33)

Read Exodus 26:31-35

Today’s churches are very welcoming to guests. The Jewish temple gave a different message: STAY OUT! Only the High Priest was allowed to enter the Holy of Holies and only once a year. The curtain or veil that hid this area was constructed in such a way that no one would or could even accidently trip into the Holy of Holies: 60 feet tall, 20 feet wide and 4 inches thick. The message was clear: You are not welcome.

As I stood with the lady I told you about on Day 1 at the back of the church, her guilt and shame created an invisible curtain, screaming to her, “You don’t belong here.” But on Good Friday, the curtain tore in two, giving us free and full access to the holiness of God.

Think of or draw a picture of a curtain torn or pulled apart. In the opening, think of or write a word that reminds you of a time when God welcomed you in.

Prayer Starter:
Jesus, your death opened the way for me, but sometimes I lack the confidence to come to You, especially when . . .