For on the one hand, a former commandment is set aside because of its weakness and uselessness (for the law made nothing perfect); but on the other hand, a better hope is introduced, through which we draw near to God.
Hebrews 7:18–19, ESV
Prior to the coming of Messiah, the chosen people of God placed their hope in the keeping of the Law and sacrifices. It created a people that lived with either less certainty because they were aware of their shortcomings and failures or a people puffed up and proud, believing they lived such Godly lives. Either way, the people were more often far away from God and wrapped up in the things of this world. In the coming of Messiah, we have found that there is freedom through Jesus Christ. He came to restore us to God and to draw us into the Holy Places. The curtain was torn, and we have not been kept a handsbreadth away. God has brought us near to Himself, and the restoration of Creation has begun. The Law no longer has power over us because we are being perfected in the One who fulfilled the Law and covers us with His covering. This does not excuse our sin, but we are forgiven. This does not mean we are able to do what we want, but we are called to seek after our Lord’s will. We are being renewed, and the Kingdom of God is being revealed to us as we look ahead and seek after the promise. Forgiveness is not a license but a release from the bondage that has held us and keeps us from coming near to God. The sacrifice we offer to God is our broken and contrite hearts, as we know that we are a people in need of restoration and peace. In this peace, we hear the songs of salvation song for our benefit, and the dark veil is lifted to reveal the love of our saving Father.
Let us pray. I thank you, my heavenly Father, through Jesus Christ, your dear Son, that you have kept me this night from all harm and danger, and I ask you to protect me this day also from sin and every evil, that in all I do today, I may please you. For into your hands, I commend myself, my body and soul, and all that is mine. Let your holy angel watch over me, that the wicked foe have no power over me. Amen.