Readings: Leviticus 1, Leviticus 2, Leviticus 3, Leviticus 4

Leviticus 4:35 – “In this way, the priest will make reconciliation for you for the sin you committed, and you will be forgiven.”

The book of Leviticus lays out the patterns of worship and the expectations for daily behavior for God’s people. This book also teaches the Israelites how to make sacrifices of atonement to cover their sins. While the overall theme of the book is a call to holy living, it also acknowledges that as human beings we will fall short. In and through these faith disciplines and practices, the Israelites will come to understand their call to be a “holy nation” and a “kingdom of priests.”

Today’s readings all deal with offerings made to the Lord. In each offering the priest plays an integral role. Chapter 1 describes the entirely burned offering. These were made in atonement for sin. The flawless animal brought, a hand was placed on its head, the animal was slaughtered. Placing one’s hand on the head of the animal symbolized a solidarity with the animal that reflected the idea of a life for a life. Blood went into the altar and sometimes other places too. The whole animal was burned on the altar.

Grain offerings are covered in chapter 2. These were given at the time of harvest and at other times of celebration as a thank offering to the Lord. Oil and frankincense were added and burned with the grain. The priest kept all but the “token portion.” Chapter 3 covers well-being sacrifices. These non-required sacrifices involved burning only the fat. The rest of the animal was consumed by the family. The rest of the ritual was the same: flawless animal, hand on head…

Chapter 4 deals with sacrifices given to atone for unintentional sin that was later discovered. The ritual practices were still the same. If the sin was by a priest or the whole community, a bull was sacrificed. A leader or individual brought a goat. Again, just the fat was burned on the altar. The rest of the bull was burned outside of camp but the goats could be eaten. These sacrifices brought reconciliation with God and yielded the forgiveness of sins.

Prayer: Lord God, in this system and in these sacrifices we see great attention to detail. The sacrificial system offered thanks to you and it sought forgiveness too. Your holiness covered both. Lead and guide us to live out our faith in such obedience and honesty. Amen.