Today’s Reading, Hebrews 7-10
Focal Scripture: Hebrews 9:22 “According to the law almost everything is purified with blood, and without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness.”
Blood makes some people squeamish. I have seen very large muscular men pass out when they have donated blood. In one hand it’s not funny. However, on the other hand it is pretty hysterical site to see a man crumple like a paper bag when he watches his blood go into a tube. I give this example because our faith is a bloody religion. Blood plays a vital role in the application of what we believe.
In today’s reading the writer of Hebrews is explaining the difference in the 1st covenant and the 2nd covenant. The main difference is that the blood of animals had to be continually applied. It was a short term fix to a permanent problem of sin. However, with Christ his blood is a permanent solution to the biggest problem ever. It is clear that for forgiveness to happen in either the Old or the New Testament death must occur. The penalty of sin must be paid either by ourselves or Christ.
I don’t want us to remove ourselves from this thought. Our sin is only forgiven because blood was spilt. For thousands of years the Jewish people slaughtered animals and applied blood to have a temporary reprieve from God’s wrath. This sacrifice was often not personal but it was a requirement of the law.
Things changed when Jesus arrived. Not only did he become our High Priest he became our sacrifice. He willingly gave up his body so he could spill his precious blood. He then as High Priest can go to the Father and let him know that our sins are forgiven and forgotten because of his precious blood.
During this Christmas season we celebrate the incarnation of Christ. This event though leads to the most important act Christ would embark on. His purposeful and obedient death on a cross. Where our sins have been nailed and the blood sprinkled to appease a Holy God.
In Hebrews it also tells us that it is a dreadful thing to fall into the hands of an angry God. Thankfully because our religion is so bloody we have forgiveness and don’t have to experience his wrath and justice.
We just have to believe in Jesus Christ. So who do you believe in today? He is waiting to apply the blood to your life before the Father.
Tomorrow I plan on reading Hebrews 11-13
