Access
This word means “the process of approaching or entering a place”. For example, a stairway gives access to the upper or lower level. The word access also means “the right to use or benefit from something”. An example of this might be access to a computer system for the bank where my money is kept. In our age of computers, smart phones and tablets, having access is valuable. I have an access code/password on my devices to protect against the access of others without me knowing.
I like knowing that I have the credentials to access certain information and places. I often have to abide by the protocol in order to continue to use my access into those places.
The Hebrew writer speaks of access to God. Under the old covenant (found in the Old Testament), the people only had access to God via the priest. The priest only had direct access to the Most Holy Place of the temple once a year. When Jesus came, this Most Holy Place became accessible to all. Check this out….
11 But when Christ came as high priest of the good things that are now already here, he went through the greater and more perfect tabernacle that is not made with human hands, that is to say, is not a part of this creation. 12 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. 13 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. 14 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 NIV)
I get excited when I think through all the Jesus accomplished while He was here. His life set the standard as to how I should live. His death gave me access to the Creator who is NOW present with me each day as I walk out my faith. I am humbled and honored by His Presence. I have been known to seek council from another trusted Christian friend or pastor. I don’t have to go to anyone – I can go straight to God. I often need “God with skin on” and for that, I need a trusted confidant or friend who will speak truth into my life and keep me from stumbling in my faith journey. I have direct access to God. I don’t need a secret code. I don’t have to go to church three times in a row. I just need faith in Him to have access. That is “freaking amazing”!! He is Amazing! He if Faithful! He is full of LOVE & GRACE!
Pressing On! Dwayne