Worship Devotional - "From Distance to Intimacy"

Key Scripture: "Therefore, brethren, having boldness to enter the Holiest by the blood of Jesus, by a new and living way which He consecrated for us, through the veil, that is, His flesh." - Hebrews 10:19-20

Reflection

Generally speaking, the Old Testament saints worshiped from a distance, and no one had personal access to God except for the high priest. They had no real concept of God as Father. The way into the Holiest of All was not yet made manifest while the first tabernacle was still standing.

But Jesus changed everything. He moved the veil of access to God so that we could boldly enter into His presence with an honest and sincere heart. The Old Testament worshiper knew Him as God only, and yet we are privileged to worship Him as Father.

What an act of grace that we now have the same Father as Jesus and have the freedom to worship Him as our very own Father. We are no longer slaves but sons and daughters. This must have been extremely radical to the Samaritan woman when Jesus spoke of worshiping "the Father." It may still seem radical today, but it's the truth—God is our Father.

God wants us to have an intimate relationship with Him as His children. If we do not embrace that place of intimacy with God, we will be New Testament believers who have a better covenant but inferior fellowship than some who experienced intimacy with God in the Old Testament.

Today's Challenge

Approach God today not as a distant deity but as your Father. Use the word "Father" or even "Abba" in your prayers. Let the intimacy of that relationship transform how you worship.

Prayer

Abba, Father, thank You for tearing the veil and giving me access to Your presence. I don't want to worship from a distance when You've invited me into intimacy. I embrace my place as Your child and come boldly into Your presence today. Amen.