Are You Fragrant?

A funny question I know, but a necessary one! In Leviticus chapter 1 the rules are set forth for the offering of a burnt sacrifice. This was the first of several offerings described in the opening 7 chapters of Leviticus. God had just decided to abide with the children of Israel, appearing to them in the tabernacle aka tent of meeting. He then, in Leviticus, goes about setting the ground rules the children of Israel must adhere to in order to dwell in the presence of a Holy God.

The burnt offering was unique in that it was the only required offering that involved the entire animal to be offered, saving for the skin of the animal. The burnt offering was made every day by the heads of the household. This symbolized the total consecration of the worshiper and served to “cover” his sins. The worshiper was to place his hand on the head of the animal thus identifying with the animal. The understanding was that the animal was dying in the place of the offerer. The second half of verse 9 says: “And the priest shall burn all of it on the altar, as a burnt offering, a food offering with a pleasing aroma to the LORD” (Lev 1:9 ESV).

In Ephesians chapter 5 the apostle Paul, speaking under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, speaks of the final sacrifice in the following way: “And walk in love, as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us, a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God” (Eph 5:2). Did you catch that? If we walk in love, as Christ loved us, we are fragrant, or satisfying to God, just like Jesus!

The real good news is that I have observed many in our congregation offering such sacrifices. Every time you answer that call again, every time you’ve gone the extra mile to help someone in need, every time you invited the lonely ones into your homes, you’ve been pleasing to your Lord!!

I am blessed to be a part of your loving fellowship!!!

Pastor J