February 11 – Reading 42

FEBRUARY 11 – Reading 42

by John Pra | February 11

“THE PEACE OFFERING”
(Leviticus 4:1 – 7:38)

“With the sacrifice of his peace offerings for thanksgiving he shall bring his offering with loaves of
leavened bread.” – Leviticus 7:13

A common misconception of the Old Testament is that it is only focused on the law and demands of a
holy God; how, when, and where man is to offer bloody sacrifices to appease Him; impending judgment;
and the likes. However, what is often overlooked is the love, mercy, and grace of God that permeates
throughout.

Leviticus gives instruction for offerings and sacrifices dealing with sin and guilt, but in chapter 7 we read
something a little different – a peace offering. Sin has been exposed, sacrifice has been made,
atonement has been offered by God – now follows a response of thanksgiving from God’s people.

The peace offering is a voluntary thanksgiving sacrifice. A realization of God’s mercy and grace toward
them. It was a time of celebrating the peace between God and man attained through sacrifice. It was a
reminder of the restored relationship between God and man and the enjoyment of fellowship and
communion.

This pattern should also define our lives as New Testament Christians. As sinners who have confessed
our sin, turned from them, and received forgiveness through Christ’s blood and by His grace, we are
called to bring our own offerings of thanksgiving.

“Through him then let us continually offer up a sacrifice of praise to God, that is, the fruit of lips
that acknowledge his name.”

– Hebrews 13:15

Every time we reflect on the truth that Christ has bought us peace with God, we should be provoked to
give thanksgiving and praise.

Pray for…

• A heart of gratitude for the peace we now have through the sacrifice of Jesus Christ.
• A greater understanding and appreciation for God’s mercy and grace that makes a way for us to
  approach God.
• A deeper communion and fellowship with God and the ability to rest in His peace.