Hebrews 9  Again, pressing on to maturity... going beyond the elementary teachings.. the writer gives us a contrast between the earthly tabernacle and the True tabernacle...

The pattern given to Moses included the Holy Place and the Holy of Holies.  In the Holy place there was the lamp stand and the table of the Presence.  The priests could enter there every day and do the work assigned to them.  But, the Holy of Holies was behind a second veil.  There is where the ark of the covenant and the altar of incense stayed.  Only once a year.. and only the high priest entered the Holy of Holies.  And, when he entered he had to bring the blood which was offered for "himself and for the sins of the people". 

"But when Christ appeared as a high priest of the good things to come, He entered through the greater and more perfect tabernacle, not made with hands, that is to say, not of this creation..." 

He entered "through His own blood.." 
He entered " once for all, having obtained eternal redemption"

His sacrifice.. His blood.. did more than any animal's blood could ever do,  ".. how much more with the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered Himself without blemish to God, cleanse your conscience from dead works to serve the living God?" 

" And for this reason He is the mediator of a new covenant in order that since a death has taken place for the redemption of the transgressions that were committed under the first covenant, those who have been called may receive the promise of the eternal inheritance." v15

Just as the earthly tabernacle had to be dedicated.. cleansed with the blood of sacrifices .. and they were just copies "of all the things in heaven".. "the heavenly things themselves" were cleansed by something greater... the blood of Jesus.  He came into heaven itself.. not a manmade building...
He appeared before the throne of God.. once for all.. "He has been manifested to put away sin by the sacrifice of Himself."


Father in heaven, thank You for the salvation that has been provided by Your Son, the perfect Lamb of God.  Jesus, You are our Savior and King.  We bow before the throne of the Most High God, because we have such a great High Priest.. Increase our understanding. Just thinking about the fact that there is a place outside of "this creation".. brings awe and wonder to me.. I bow in worship before You, the Holy, Mighty, and Eternal God. Then to think of the fact that Jesus Christ came to put away sin.. forever by laying down His own life... what amazing love and grace..
How can I say thanks?  To God be the glory!

  Amen.