Just as the Christian’s hope isn’t realized on the death bed, it’s ultimate fulfillment doesn’t occur at the rapture either. We will all be changed, either through transformation or resurrection. But the redemption of our bodies carries us to the next step of our hope’s journey, the judgement seat of Christ. As you read what follows, take comfort in the knowledge that His throne is the Mercy Seat.
On the Day of Atonement, blood went on the veil and beyond. The blood of the sin sacrifice was sprinkled on it with a motion that imitated whipping a man.[1] When Jesus gave up the ghost, the veil of the temple was rent from top to bottom.[2] Can you imagine the reaction of the priests? There they are in the holy place going about their daily functions when suddenly—“RIIIIP!!”—this very tall, double-thick veil tears down the middle from top to bottom. And as if that weren’t bad enough, then comes an earthquake to knock them off their feet! There’s not much in life that teaches humility quite like getting knocked down. The veil tore from the top. Grace comes from God to man; only the humble receive it.
The Bible Philes 