The Garden, the Curtain, and the Cross
This Sunday, we took a journey through the story of Scripture to discover God's heart for humanity—from the Garden of Eden to the cross of Christ. Using the children's book The Garden, the Curtain, and the Cross as a guide alongside God's Word, we were reminded that the Bible tells one beautiful story: God's desire to be with His people.
We were reminded that children are a blessing from the Lord, and one of the greatest callings of the church is to disciple the next generation. While sermons on Sunday matter, the most influential places for sharing the Gospel are often around dining tables and night stands. Faith is meant to be lived out at home.
Looking back to Genesis, we saw that God created a world that was "very good." His presence brought order, life, and wholeness to creation. But when humanity chose its own way over God's, sin entered the world, bringing brokenness and separation. Throughout the Old Testament, that separation was symbolized by cherubim guarding Eden and later woven into the curtain of the tabernacle and temple—a constant reminder that sinful humanity could not freely enter God's holy presence.
Yet separation was never God's desire.
From the very beginning, God's plan was to restore what had been lost. The tabernacle, the temple, and every promise throughout Scripture pointed toward Jesus—the One who would make a way back into God's presence.
During the Feast of Tabernacles, while people watched priests pour out water as a symbol of God's provision, Jesus stood and made an incredible invitation: "If anyone is thirsty, let him come to Me and drink." He wasn't just speaking about physical thirst—He was pointing to the gift of the Holy Spirit, who would one day be poured out on everyone who believes.
That promise became reality through the cross.
When Jesus died, the curtain in the temple was torn from top to bottom. The barrier between God and humanity was removed—not by human effort, but by God's grace. Through Jesus, access to the Father was opened to all. No longer was God's presence reserved for a select few; everyone who calls on the name of the Lord can come boldly into His presence.
We cannot overcome our brokenness through willpower or self-improvement. Like Scripture teaches—and even as reflected in the first step of recovery—we must first admit that we are powerless to save ourselves. Only God's grace and the transforming work of the Holy Spirit can truly make us whole.
God's presence is where healing happens. It's where broken lives are restored, weary hearts are renewed, and freedom is found. The invitation Jesus gave still stands today: if you are thirsty, come to Him. His desire has always been for every person to experience the fullness of His presence and the life-changing power of His Holy Spirit.
