Before the cross, access to the Father was limited. The temple had a holy place and a most holy place. Only the high priest could enter the most holy place, and only once a year, with blood. A thick curtain separated the people from the immediate presence of God.

At the moment Jesus died, that curtain was torn in two from top to bottom Matthew 27:51. The barrier was removed. The way into the Father’s presence was opened. The cross is the Father’s open door.

The book of Hebrews develops this theme fully. “Therefore, brothers and sisters, since we have confidence to enter the Most Holy Place by the blood of Jesus, by a new and living way opened for us through the curtain, that is, his body, and since we have a great priest over the house of God, let us draw near to God with a sincere heart and in the full assurance of faith” Hebrews 10:19-22.

This changes prayer. We do not approach the Father as strangers or beggars. We approach as children, welcomed by the Son’s blood, represented by the Son as our high priest, and empowered by the Spirit. The Father’s door is open.

This changes worship. We do not worship from a distance, hoping the Father might be pleased. We worship in the Spirit and in truth, accepted because of Christ. The Father receives us.

This changes identity. We are not outsiders looking in. We are members of the Father’s household. We have access to the Father’s ear, the Father’s heart, and the Father’s inheritance.

The cross is not only the place where sin is punished. It is the doorway through which sinners enter the Father’s presence. It is the bridge over the chasm between a holy God and a fallen people. It is the open gate of the Father’s welcome.

Do not live as if the door were still closed. Do not pray as if you need permission to bother the Father. Do not worship as if you must first prove yourself. The cross has opened the way. Walk through it.

Memory Verse: Hebrews 10:19-20 — Therefore, brothers and sisters, since we have confidence to enter the Most Holy Place by the blood of Jesus, by a new and living way opened for us through the curtain, that is, his body.

Action Step: For the next seven days, begin your prayers with: “Father, I come to you through the blood of Jesus.” Notice how this affects your confidence.

Exercise: Draw a simple diagram showing the curtain before the cross and the open door after the cross. Label what changed.