Matthew 27:50-51, 54
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.
When the centurion and those who were with him, keeping watch over Jesus, saw the earthquake and what took place, they were filled with awe and said, “Truly this was the Son of God!”
Hebrews 10:19-20
Therefore, brothers, since 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,
Ephesians 2:18
For through him we both have access in one Spirit to the Father.
Adult Reflection
As Christ’s flesh is torn, God Himself rends the Temple veil from top to bottom. The symbol of absolute separation – the barrier that kept humanity from the Holy of Holies, the presence of God – is destroyed. Access is now open! The work of the Son is ratified by the Father: we are invited, even carried, back into intimate communion.
Reflect:
Do I live like I truly have access to God?
Children’s Reflection
The moment Jesus died, God tore the huge, special curtain in His temple right down the middle! That curtain was like a big “STOP” sign that kept people out of God’s special room.
God tore it to show everyone: “Because of my Son Jesus, the ‘STOP’ sign is gone! My children can come talk to me anytime!“
Dear Jesus, when you died, God tore the curtain! He showed that the “Keep Out” sign is gone. Now I can talk to God as my Father anytime, because of you.
When you are ready, please walk through the torn curtain.