A Devotional Inspired by Matthew 27:50–51
? HEAD — Something to Know
“And Jesus cried out again with a loud voice and yielded up his spirit. And behold, the curtain of the temple was torn in two, from top to bottom. And the earth shook, and the rocks were split.”
— Matthew 27:50–51 (ESV)
This moment—when Jesus died on the cross—is more than a dramatic scene. It’s history’s greatest spiritual breakthrough.
To fully grasp its meaning, we must remember the curtain (or veil) in the Temple. It was 30 feet tall, 4 inches thick, and unbreakable by human hands. Woven into it were cherubim—fierce, warrior angels—reminding everyone of the angels that stood guard at the entrance to Eden (Genesis 3:24), declaring: “Because of sin, you can’t come in.”
Only the high priest could pass through this curtain, and only once a year—with blood.
But then… Jesus.
When He gave up His spirit, the curtain tore from top to bottom—a divine act, not human. The separation was shattered. The veil didn’t just tear—it died with Jesus. Why?
? Hebrews 10:19–20 – “We have confidence to enter the holy places by the blood of Jesus, by the new and living way that He opened for us through the curtain, that is, through His flesh.”
The curtain was always pointing to Christ Himself. He is the Way, the Truth, and the Life—the only way back into the presence of God.
❤️ HEART — Something to Feel
Imagine you’ve stood outside the gate your whole life—hearing about God’s presence, seeing glimpses, but never stepping in.
Then one day, that thick curtain shreds. The flaming sword is gone. The cherubim step aside. And a voice says:
“Come in. The door is open… because of HIM.”
Let that wash over your soul: You are no longer locked out.
Because of Jesus, the “Keep Out” sign became a “Welcome Home” mat. Because of Jesus, guilt is gone, shame is covered, and access is granted.
Are you living as someone who has been let in? Or still acting like you’re locked out?
Let joy rise. Let reverence deepen. Let boldness grow. You’ve been given access to God’s presence—not because you earned it, but because Jesus tore the curtain.
✋ HAND — Something to Do (Action & Application)
?️ Takeaway:
Live like the curtain is gone. Draw near to God every day. Invite others in.
✅ Action Steps:
- Read Hebrews 10:19–22. Meditate on what “confidence to enter” means in your life right now.
- Spend time in prayer in a quiet space. Approach God boldly—not sheepishly. The door is open.
- Tell someone your story. Share with a friend or loved one how Jesus gave you access—and invite them to come in too.
- Worship intentionally. Let your praise reflect the joy of open access to God. Sing like you’re standing in the throne room—because, spiritually, you are.
❓ Reflection Questions:
- Am I still living like the curtain is up? In what ways do I act as though I’m unworthy to enter?
- Have I accepted the invitation to come into God’s presence by grace?
- Who around me is still living outside the gate? How can I invite them in?
? Prayer:
Father,
Thank You for the cross. Thank You that when Jesus died, the curtain tore, the barrier broke, and the way to You opened forever. Forgive me for the times I still live like I’m not welcome. Teach me to walk in the confidence and joy of Your presence.
May I never take this access for granted. Help me invite others in.
Jesus, thank You for tearing the veil with Your body, for turning “Keep Out” into “Come In.” I love You. I trust You.
In Your name I pray,
Amen.