Scripture Reading: Hebrews 12:18–24

But you have come to Mount Zion, to the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem. You have come to thousands upon thousands of angels in joyful assembly Hebrews 12:22

Today’s passage draws a vivid contrast between Mount Sinai and Mount Zion. At Mount Sinai, the presence of God was so overwhelming that the people begged for the voice to stop, and even Moses said he trembled with fear. But God now invites His people to gladly approach Mount Zion, the city of the living God, without fear. This passage reminds us that we do not come to God in fear and distance, but in confidence and belonging because of what Christ has done.

Here are three truths from today’s passage

  1. We have not come to a mountain of fear. Sinai was a place of trembling. It was a picture of God’s holiness and humanity’s distance. But that is not where we stand anymore. We are not held at the edge of God’s presence, afraid to draw near.

  2. We have come to Mount Zion. Zion is a picture of God’s open invitation. It is a gathering filled with life, worship, and celebration. Through Christ, we are welcomed into God’s presence. This is a reminder that God’s presence is now a place of welcome; a place where we are received and not pushed away.

  3. Jesus is the reason we can stand in God’s presence without fear. We stand in Zion because Jesus brought us there. His blood speaks a better word of mercy and forgiveness. Zion reveals the closeness to God made possible through Christ. We do not come to God trembling at the edge but welcomed into His presence, because Jesus has made peace between us and God.

Pray with me: Dear Lord, thank You that I am always welcome in Your house. Please help my heart rest in the peace and belonging that come from being brought near to You.