The essence of Easter – Jesus’ death, burial and resurrection, is described by the Apostle Paul as a message of “first importance” (1 Corinthians 15:1-4). It is the message of Good News, “on which your faith stands firm”. The events of Easter upend the Jewish sacrificial system forever. Jews and Gentiles, every human being, now have unprecedented access to the one, true, Holy God.

The Holy Week LENT reading in Hebrews 16 explains the radical change Jesus’ sacrifice enacted through the cross – a change that is “effective forever” (v12 GNT). As the Message version explains, Jesus’ once for all sacrifice, “was a perfect sacrifice, by a perfect person to perfect some very imperfect people”. Hebrews 16 outlines how Jesus’ death and resurrection facilitates our forgiveness, freedom and faith. God promises our forgiveness – “I will not remember their sins and evil deeds any longer. So, when these have been forgiven an offering to take away sins is no longer needed”. (v 17-18) Luke’s account of the crucifixion reminds us that as Jesus breathed his last on the cross, the temple curtain (separating the Holy of Holies) is torn in two. This dramatic image means we have “complete freedom to go into the Most Holy Place” (v19). The barrier between us and God has been stripped away, and with a “sincere heart and a sure faith” we can come near to God. (v22). How can we, unclean, sinful people, draw near to a Holy God? We have been forgiven, set free and purified from all guilt, washed clean through the sacrifice of our Saviour, Jesus.

I hope and pray this incredible message resonates as of “first importance” to you and is a firm foundation for your faith. Let us approach this Easter weekend with humble, grateful hearts, assured of our forgiveness and freedom to come near to God, firm in our faith because of what Jesus has done – a sacrifice that is “effective forever”!

Blessings,

Sarah

Photo by Bruno van der Kraan on Unsplash