Read Leviticus 1:1-17
It helps to understand the time and place we find ourselves in as we read the Book of Leviticus. Moses and God’s people are in the wilderness at the foot of Mt. Sinai. God has just rescued and delivered them from bondage in Egypt. Now God gives Moses laws and directions for life to share with the people. This part of Bible history is necessary to set up how and why God’s people are living in the land of Palestine.
The Book of Exodus helped us understand the tabernacle set up as God’s presence among his people. Our reading begins there, in the tabernacle, as God is communicating with Moses. We see God “giving” these instructions to make people “right” with God, that is forgiven for their sins. The first Covenant between God and his people is being revealed.
The sacrifice system is foreign to us as Christ followers because of what Jesus did for us on the cross. His sacrifice for us was in place of these animals, perfect in every way. It seems strange to read about the rules for sacrifices and picture all these animals being sacrificed. The priests had quite a job!
We need to remember that the people worshiped God through the giving of these sacrifices. There was a cleansing of sin allowing the people to draw closer to God. Their act of obedience would have shown their devotion. A sweet aroma would certainly be pleasing to the LORD. The smell of meat cooking on the grill can give us a small picture of how this process would smell.
The tradition of worship I grew up in incorporated a time for confession of sins in every worship service. Acknowledging how we fall short and having a repentant heart seems to have roots in God’s command about sacrifices. This reading deals with those offerings being burned by fire. In the following passages, we’ll learn about other offerings before the LORD.
How confident are you that your own giving to God is like a pleasing aroma? Even though we don’t sacrifice animals anymore, what sorts of things do you give back to God? Your time is one special commodity, and spending time in God’s word must be very pleasing to God.
Take some time today to reflect on Jesus’ sacrifice for you. God’s hand was on him as he gave his life for you, making you right with God. How do you respond to that?
Let’s pray. Father, thank you for how your Word tells the story of your interactions and gifts to your people. Reveal to me the message you have for me from these ancient traditions. Help me to understand your purpose and live my life in accordance with those purposes, even if the expectations may have changed over time. I look forward to what you will reveal to me about the First Covenant. May my life be a pleasing aroma to you. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
