INVITING GRACE

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Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need.  Hebrews 4:16

At any given time, there are over a million people flying in airplanes all around the world. They may be traveling for business or pleasure, but there is one thing that they all have in common—they all have a ticket. Without a ticket, it is impossible to even get through security, nonetheless on an airplane. Commercial airplanes are simply off-limits for those who do not have a ticket.

For Israel, the place that was off-limits was the Most Holy Place, the inner sanctuary within the tabernacle. This holy place where God’s presence dwelled was separated from the rest of the tabernacle by a veil, and only the high priest could enter through the veil on the Day of Atonement when he would offer sacrifices for the people’s sins. In Hebrews, the author says that Jesus has become our great high priest. Because of what he has done for us on the cross, the veil has been torn in two, allowing all who have put their faith in Jesus to come boldly into God’s presence. Jesus has become our “ticket,” granting us entrance to the place that was once off-limits to us. And he grants us so much more than passage to an airplane, but access to a relationship with God himself.

However, there are often circumstances in our lives which keep us from taking advantage of the access we have to God’s presence. It may be the shame of a lingering sin or the disillusionment caused by acute suffering. Or sometimes, we become so focused on the mission that we stop running to God and spending time in his presence. This is the enemy’s scheme, to keep us from running to God because he knows that it is here that we will receive mercy and grace to help us in our time of need. It is by communing with God and receiving grace from him that we can resist temptation, persevere in suffering, and accomplish his mission.

Because of Christ’s inviting grace, you can draw near to God.

Reflect

1. Children express their needs without limit and seek out their parents without hesitation. How often do you approach God with childlike faith?
2. What are some beliefs you may struggle with that can keep you from accepting Christ’s invitation? Write down the truthful, biblical responses to some of those thoughts.  
3. What are some practical ways that you can draw near to God?

Pray

Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need.  Hebrews 4:16

Heavenly Father, your grace has made a way for me to have a relationship with you. I declare that the shame of my past and the worries of who I once was will not stop me from coming into your throne room. You victoriously conquered death so that I could be invited into your presence. Lord, you know what my struggles are and call me to come close to you. Help me to hear your voice and confidently draw near to you, in the darkest times and in my joyful moments. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.