April 19

Morning

At that moment the veil of the temple was torn in two from top to bottom. The earth quaked and the rocks were split. — Matt 27:51 BSB

The tearing of the thick, strong veil was no small miracle, but it wasn’t meant to be just a display of power—many lessons are hidden in this event.

The old system of laws and ceremonies was done away with, like a worn-out garment, torn and set aside. When Jesus died, the sacrifices were completed because He fulfilled them all, and the place where they were offered was marked with a clear sign of their end.

That torn veil also revealed the hidden things of the old covenant: the mercy seat could now be seen, and God’s glory shone above it. Through the death of Jesus, we have a clear revelation of God. He didn’t veil Himself like Moses, but brought life and immortality to light. Things hidden since the foundation of the world are now revealed in Him.

The annual ritual of atonement was abolished. The blood that was sprinkled within the veil each year was now offered once for all by our great High Priest. So, the place for the symbolic act was destroyed. We no longer need the blood of bulls or lambs because Jesus has entered the Holy of Holies with His own blood. Now, access to God is open and is the privilege of every believer in Christ. There’s not just a small gap for us to glimpse the mercy seat—the veil was torn from top to bottom. We can approach the throne of grace boldly.

Shall we be wrong to say that this tearing of the veil, through our Lord’s final cry, symbolizes the opening of paradise for all believers because of His suffering? Our wounded Lord holds the key to heaven; He opens, and no one can close. Let us enter with Him into heavenly places and sit with Him until His enemies become His footstool.

Evening

To the angel of the church in Laodicea write: These are the words of the Amen, the faithful and true Witness, the Originator of God’s creation. — Rev 3:14 BSB

The word "Amen" solemnly confirms everything that came before it, and Jesus is the ultimate confirmer. He is unchanging, forever "the Amen" in all His promises. Sinner, I want to comfort you with this thought.

Jesus Christ said, "Come to Me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest." If you come to Him, He will say "Amen" in your soul; His promise will be true for you. He said during His earthly ministry, "A bruised reed I will not break." Oh, you broken and bruised heart, if you come to Him, He will say "Amen" to you, just as He has done for countless others throughout the years.

Christian, isn’t it comforting to know that there isn’t a single word from Jesus’ lips that He has ever taken back? His words will stand firm even when heaven and earth pass away. If you hold on to even part of a promise, you will find it true. Beware of those who would try to take away the comfort of God’s Word. Jesus is "Yes" and "Amen" in all His roles.

He was once a priest to pardon and cleanse, and He is still "Amen" as our Priest today. He was once a King to rule, defend, and protect His people, and He remains "Amen" as our King.

He was a prophet long ago, speaking of good things to come, and His lips still speak with sweetness and truth—He is "Amen" as our Prophet. His blood remains "Amen" in its power to cleanse, and His righteousness remains "Amen" in its perfection. That sacred robe of righteousness will stay beautiful and glorious even when the world fades away.

He is "Amen" in every title He holds—your Husband, who will never divorce you; your Friend, who stays closer than a brother; your Shepherd, who will walk with you through the valley of death; your Help, your Deliverer, your Fortress, your Strong Tower, the Horn of your salvation, your confidence, your joy, and your "Yes" and "Amen" in all things.