He did not enter by means of the blood of goats and calves; but he entered the Most Holy Place once for all by his own blood, thus obtaining eternal redemption. The blood of goats and bulls and the ashes of a heifer sprinkled on those who are ceremonially unclean sanctify them so that they are outwardly clean. How much more, then, will the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered himself unblemished to God, cleanse our consciences from acts that lead to death, so that we may serve the living God!
—Hebrews 9:11-14

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The Crimson Thread
By Jennifer Kane

From Eden’s shame came a covering—
a garment stained by the first life taken,
blood shed to hide their sin.

In Abel’s offering, the cry of the firstborn lamb,
a sacrifice accepted, a shadow of faith
where blood speaks of redemption.

The lamb’s blood marked the doorposts,
a sign of mercy in a night of judgment,
death passing over where life was given.

On the mercy seat, the priest’s trembling hands
sprinkled blood for a nation’s atonement—
innocence exchanged for guilt,
a plea rising from earth to heaven.

At Sinai’s heights, the covenant was bound,
sealed by the blood of sacrifice,
a people consecrated, a promise declared.

Isaiah saw Him—the Servant,
pierced and crushed, led like a lamb to the slaughter.
In His suffering, the world’s true light shone.

Behold the Lamb who walked among us,
His blood spilled to reconcile the lost.
The new covenant poured out in love,
eternal redemption through His sacrifice.

And now, around the throne,
the redeemed sing to the Lamb who was slain.
The crimson thread weaves through the ages,
writing forgiveness across the pages of history.

~~~~~

Scripture Reading: Hebrews 9:11-28

Yesterday I spoke a lot about God being our eternal shepherd, but as was mentioned yesterday Jesus is also the Lamb of God. The imagery of Jesus as both our Shepherd and the Lamb of God paints a profound picture of His love and sacrifice. While He guides and cares for us as a Shepherd, He also became the perfect offering for the forgiveness of our sins, shedding His blood to secure eternal redemption.

In the Old Testament, the tabernacle and its rituals provided a temporary way for people to approach God. Animal sacrifices allowed outward cleansing and symbolized atonement, but they could not purify the heart or provide lasting access to God. These were shadows pointing forward to Christ, the true fulfillment.

When Jesus came, He entered not an earthly tabernacle but heaven itself—the true and perfect sanctuary. He offered His own blood, not repeatedly like the high priests of old, but once for all time. His sacrifice was final, sufficient, and complete, opening the way for us to approach God with confidence.

This truth reminds us of the unmatched power of Christ’s work. Through His blood, not only are we forgiven, but our consciences are cleansed. We are freed from the dead works of guilt and legalism to serve the living God with joy and purpose (Hebrews 9:14).

The Old Covenant sacrifices were a temporary solution, a placeholder for what Jesus would accomplish. His death fulfilled the requirements of the law, canceling the debt of sin and inaugurating a New Covenant. This covenant invites us into an intimate relationship with God, based on grace rather than works.

Jesus’ first coming dealt decisively with sin, but His second coming will bring salvation in its fullness. He will return, not to bear sin, but to deliver His people and establish His eternal kingdom. This promise inspires us to live with purpose and hope, confident in the work He has done and the glory that lies ahead.

How does the knowledge of Jesus as your eternal High Priest change the way you approach God in prayer? In what ways can you serve the living God with a cleansed conscience, free from guilt or legalism? How does the promise of Christ’s return inspire you to live with hope and purpose today?

Take time today to meditate on Hebrews 9:12-14. Reflect on the significance of Jesus’ blood, which cleanses and empowers you to serve God. Ask the Holy Spirit to reveal one way you can live out this calling—whether through worship, service, or sharing the gospel with someone in need.

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Dear Lord Jesus, thank You for being our perfect High Priest and the Lamb who takes away the sins of the world. Your blood cleanses us, not only outwardly but inwardly, freeing us from guilt and empowering us to serve You. Help us to approach Your throne with confidence, knowing that You have made the way open.

Father, please teach us to live in the light of Your sacrifice, full of gratitude and purpose. As we await Your return, let us live as those redeemed by grace, sharing Your love with others and worshiping You with our whole hearts. Holy Spirit, guide us today to reflect Your love in our actions and words. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

November 29 2024