Read Leviticus 16
The most important day each year for the Israelites was and still is the Day of Atonement. In ancient times, the whole nation would prepare their hearts and gather on this day and wait as the High Priest entered the most holy place of the temple to ask God to forgive the sin of His people. After the high priest returned from praying, a live goat would be brought to him.
“When Aaron has finished making atonement…. He is to lay both hands on the head of the live goat and confess over it all the wickedness and rebellion of the Israelites—and send the goat away into the wilderness…The goat will carry on itself all their sins…” (Leviticus 16: 20-22)
This goat would symbolically carry the blame for all of the failures of the Israelites and would bear the burden and weight of their sin. Ultimately, thousands of years later, all of our sins would be placed on Jesus as He hung on the cross and took the blame for our sins. Because of His ultimate sacrifice, we can stand before God forgiven.
What emotions do you think the people experienced as they waited for the High Priest to come out of the temple?
What sins do you need to confess to God?
Prayer Emphasis: Take time to today to ask God to forgive you of the sins in your life.
No comments:
Post a Comment