December 21 - The Once-For-All Redemption

“Neither by the blood of goats and calves, but by his own blood he entered in once into the holy place, having obtained eternal redemption for us.” Hebrews 9:12 (KJV)

In the spring of the year when the true Sacrifice was offered, a profound event took place. At the moment the Redeemer yielded His life, a heavy and exquisitely woven veil within the temple—crafted of the finest materials and rich colors—was torn from top to bottom by unseen hands. This extraordinary act signified a radical change in the order of things. No longer would humanity’s approach to the divine depend upon the continued offering of animal sacrifices. All these rituals, previously required to atone for sin, found their ultimate fulfillment in the single, perfect sacrifice of the Son of God.

With that momentous rending, the way into the most holy place was revealed and made accessible to all. From then onward, humanity no longer needed an earthly high priest to carry their petitions within physical walls. Instead, the One who offered Himself without blemish ascended into the heavenly sanctuary, bearing His own blood, thus securing eternal redemption. He serves there as both Priest and Advocate, interceding directly for those who seek Him in faith.

When, in times past, the hearts of believers had focused on earthly ceremonies, now they were invited to lift their eyes heavenward. The attention was redirected from a system of shadows toward the living reality. The Spirit led earnest minds to behold the continuing ministry of the One who had given Himself wholly and once for all. Earthly priesthoods and repeated offerings ceased, replaced forever by the constant mediation of the true High Priest.

In this new order, the bonds of ritual were replaced by a living relationship. Through one perfect offering, the barriers of sin have been removed, and the way into the divine presence stands open. In these times, as in the past, we too are called to turn our gaze away from repetitive earthly symbols and behold the living Minister of the new covenant, who continues to apply the virtue of His sacrifice to every seeking soul. Let us draw near, assured that our standing before God depends not on the blood of animals, but on the all-sufficient merits of the One who entered once, securing an eternal redemption.