“And when Jesus had cried out again in a loud voice, he gave up his spirit. At that moment the curtain of the temple was torn in two from top to bottom.” (Matthew 27:50-51a)
The story of how God relates to humanity is the story of God’s presence becoming increasingly experienced by the people He created and loves. In the time of Abraham, one man built altars and made sacrifices there. In Exodus, Moses established a simple tent placed outside of the camp where he – and only he - met with God as representative of the people. Later the tabernacle was established and finally the temple. The Holy of Holies was the inner place into which only the high priest made a visit only once a year.
Then comes Jesus. Stepping into history and wandering around streets and meeting people and breaking bread and rubbing shoulders with all kinds of people. Tabernacling with all those who met him. But there was more – much more – to come.
The moment Jesus breathed his last and accomplished his work, the temple veil split from top to bottom. I’ve always thought of this symbolic split as an invitation for forgiven people to now enter God’s presence made whole and holy. Instead, it seems, the temple veil was torn to show that God, actually, was stepping out of that place and into our world. Through the torn veil, He breaks out of the temple and floods into our lives. This is what happens when the Spirit of God is given to every human being who places their trust in Jesus. God now resides in us and with us. By his Spirit in us, He makes known His reality through ordinary, extraordinary people whose bodies become the dwelling place of God. God has indeed left the building!
Prayer Prompt: Lord please show me how to know and experience your presence in my life. Make me aware this day that you dwell in this world and in me.
Song of the Day: If I Stand – Rich Mullins
