I remember growing up in a Baptist church. The old testament Baptist church. We would dress up every Sunday for church. On Easter I always got a new dress and worn my ‘Sunday Best’ to church. Patten leather shoes, a bow in my hair and a dress with lace and flowers.

Boy have times changed with what we wear to church. I think that is ok though. As I read through Leviticus 16-22 it felt more important that my character be like Christ.

In chapter 16 God begins to provide instructions for HIs people to prepare themselves for time with Him. Time in the presence of God. He also knew that part of the preparation included seeking forgiveness and becoming more in line with His laws for God people.

As we continue to read on God lays out the convenient between Him and His followers. Remember back a couple chapters in Exodus; God had provided for the Israelites and He continues His mighty work today for those who follow Jesus.

I was struck by the symbolizium of the second goat. I do not recall hearing that my guilt is washed away too. Not only are we cleared of our sin but satan dosent have the right to put doubt, guilt and fear in our mind or heart. He certinaly dosent want us to know that there is full forgivness when we honor God with our life. Satan is the master of reminders, the guilt and fear giver.

In Leviticus 17 we receive clear instructions, and God explains why the sacrifice of the blood is such an important part of forgiveness. Blood of an animal goes through the animals’ veins and can carry disease. Just like our thoughts and feelings and sinful nature flow through our veins. Without sacrificing our motives for sin, we remain in guilt.

Chapters 17-22 lay out a way to live a Godly life. It has been a long journey for me to develop the character of God through obedience to His word. Gods timing has been merciful and gracious. Some days I wonder when I can stop learning. When will I live like God only and not lean on my sinful nature. With joy and hope I will be there when I meet my Savior in Heaven. When I see His face and take my place in His salvation.

The best sacrifice we, I can give is my life to Jesus Christ. To believe Jesus, as God Himself was the last sacrifice ever needed for sin. Many believers were confused when Jesus asked of us to take part in communion. To take the bread that represents His life and drink the blood that represents His sacrifice for our sin. We are instructed to take part with Him. To take the broken bread as a reminder of His broken body on that cross for our sin. We are instructed to drink with Him the blood He shed so that we know that we can conquer evil that tries to push shame and unworthiness on us. Jesus asks us to identify with Him completely. He wants us to take His life into us, and He wants to participate in our lives as well.

Lord our Father, thank you for your Son as our sacrifice for our sin. Thank you for washing away and the victory we have over the guilt and unworthiness. It is through Christ life on the cross and His resurrection that we can honor you with our life. Amen