A Word of Encouragement

September 13, 2025

The Cross - Circa 1976

Grace, Hope & Peace, Friend;

Matthew wrote that, as Jesus hung on the cross, He "cried out again with a loud voice, and gave up His spirit. And behold, the veil of the temple was torn in two from top to bottom; and the earth shook, and the rocks were split." (Matthew 27:50-51)

Mark simply wrote, "Jesus let out a loud cry, and died." (Mark 15:37) Luke wrote, "Jesus, crying out with a loud voice, said, 'Father, into Your hands I entrust My spirit.' And having said this, He died." (Luke 23:46) And John wrote, "He said, 'It is finished!' And He bowed His head and gave up His spirit." (John 19:30)

Each author wrote from personal memory or from the accounts of people that had witnessed the event. But the message is the same; The mission of Jesus' short time on earth had been accomplished.

What was Jesus' mission? Paul wrote, "God was in Christ reconciling the world to Himself." (2 Corinthians 5:19) This was God's promise after Satan persuaded humanity to reject God - that He would stand between Satan and humanity and restore us to Himself. (Genesis 3)

The 'veil' in the temple was a curtain that separated most people from God's presence, in the inner chamber. Only the High Priest could enter - once a year - after making a special sacrifice. Hebrews tells us, Jesus - as our High priest - "did this once for all time when He offered up Himself." (Hebrews 7:26-27) And, "Through His own blood, He entered the holy place once for all time, having obtained eternal redemption." (Hebrews 9:12)

Over the last few days - since the assassination of Charlie Kirk - I have noticed numerous individuals expressing a desire to reconnect with God after an extended absence or to connect with Him for the first time. This is possible because Jesus tore down the curtain that separated us from God, and reconciled us to God.

Therefore let’s approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace for help at the time of our need.
	Hebrews 4:16

Elohei haRitztzuy - God of Reconciliation - Thank You for inviting me into Your presence.

Take away my foolish desires, and let me find life by walking with You.
	Psalm 119:37 (CEV)

Reconciled to God,