Leviticus

Leviticus

The book of Leviticus is not an easy read. Almost like a handbook for the priests and Levites, it gives a snapshot of what their duties were like. It also spells out what it took for the people to live in holiness.

And really, this is the overarching message throughout the book: God is Holy. He doesn’t take sin lightly and for a person to approach Him, sin must have been dealt with. Consequently, various sacrifices were done in order to wipe their slate clean. Several of these actions would point toward Jesus and the sacrifice He made.

It’s worth noting as the opening of Leviticus jumps right into offerings, remember this was like a handbook for the Levites, the words offering and sacrifice are interchanged. There are specific times a sacrifice was called an offering. These are found in the burnt, grain and fellowship. Usually, offerings are called sacrifices. The ultimate point – each person was expected to bring an offering and sacrifice it before God on the altar. It was the only way to approach Him. It also was a sign of the person’s willingness to give up something.

We’re pretty good masters of excuses. We take our relationship with God for granted. Many times we overlook or don’t consider all Jesus went through for us to have the relationship possible through Him. And the thought of giving something up in order to please God, as a spiritual act of worship, has become so foreign today.

We want it all but we want God… without sacrificing much on our part.

As you read through this book may the historical aspects of a priestly duty come alive. But also may the reality of what it took for people to approach God during the ancient times and what has been made possible through Jesus speak. May it resonate with thankfulness for the absolute sacrifice He made. But may it also bring conviction to our own stances and outlook regarding what we personally are sacrificing and offering as part of our praise and worship.