The Jerusalem Temple had an outer court where non-Jews could come. A fence and large stones were marking the borders. Many stand longingly to go inside, but not permitted. There was also a section for Jewish women, they cannot go further. All circumcised Jewish men could go to the inner court. Priests went to the Holy Place and performed the sacrifice. A thick veil separated the Holy and Most Holy place, only the High Priest once in a year could enter to perform a sacrifice on the Day of Atonement.
Denied access: Absalom had killed his Amnon for raping his sister Tamar. He escaped and lived in exile. Then Joab interceded, and King David allowed him to come to Jerusalem. “So Absalom lived two full years in Jerusalem, without coming into the king’s presence.” (II Samuel 14:28) He was forgiven, but denied access to King’s presence for two years. Desperate Absalom asks his servants to set fire to the crops on Joab’s field. That made Joab cleverly intercede for Absalom through a parable stated by an old woman from Tekoa.
Dividing wall: The Jews and the Gentiles were divided by a dividing wall of hostility and even hatred. (Ephesians 2:14) The Gentiles did not have a covenant, Promises, Law and circumcision as a sign of covenant. They were excluded from the fellowship with the Living God. Lord Jesus removed the dividing wall and made humanity one in Christ Jesus.
Blessed Access: Psalmist writes that blessed are those chosen by God and granted to come near Him. (Psalms 65:4) God is merciful and gracious; he calls people to come near him. Those who respond are granted to come to His presence and be satisfied by His Holiness and goodness.
Christ is near: Some worries would bring the Saviour, the Messiah, the Christ from heaven or abyss. But Paul asserts the Word is near, in mouth and in heart, which is the gospel proclaimed. Those who believe are justified, reconciled, and granted access to go into His presence. (Romans 10:6-16)
Have I received the Kingdom that cannot be shaken with gratitude? (Hebrews 12:28)