February 12, 2025

In the days of Moses, God gave him instructions on how the Israelites should offer their sacrifices. Though it may seem ritualistic to provide an animal for their sacrifice, it was the only way they could have their sins forgiven, so God set the standards for them. He also clarified that the sacrifice should not be made out of obligation but because they felt compelled to honor God. Another provision he made through His instructions is that everyone, rich or poor, should have the opportunity to have their sins forgiven. If you were rich, you gave out of your wealth; if you were poor, you gave out of whatever means you had. It was similar to the tithe of today: it was voluntary then, just as it is now. Now, every time you sin, you are offering Jesus as a sacrifice. Thankfully, he willingly went to the cross on our behalf and poured out his blood to cover our sins. He was a perfect sacrifice, more than any animal could ever be. However, our goal is to refrain from sin and have a good reputation for bringing others to know Christ. We don’t want our actions to deter anyone from receiving the most perfect gift of Jesus. Think about the way you speak and act and do your best not to sin so you are a good representative of Jesus. People are watching, and God sees everything you do. 

If his offering be a burnt sacrifice of the herd, let him offer a male without blemish: he shall offer it of his own voluntary will at the door of the tabernacle of the congregation before the LORD. Leviticus 1:3