Hebrews 10:4-10
For it is not possible for the blood of bulls and goats to take away sins. That is why, when Christ came into the world, he said to God, “You did not want animal sacrifices or sin offerings. But you have given me a body to offer. You were not pleased with burnt offerings or other offerings for sin. Then I said, ‘Look, I have come to do your will, O God—as is written about me in the Scriptures.’” First, Christ said, “You did not want animal sacrifices or sin offerings or burnt offerings or other offerings for sin, nor were you pleased with them” (though they are required by the law of Moses). Then he said, “Look, I have come to do your will.” He cancels the first covenant in order to put the second into effect. For God’s will was for us to be made holy by the sacrifice of the body of Jesus Christ, once for all time. Hebrews 10:4-10 (NLT)
Did anyone ever expect or hope that you would be something great in your lifetime? Many parents have hopes and dreams for their children that may or may not align with the children’s wishes. God hopes and desires us to be made holy by the sacrifice of Jesus’ blood.
Blood in an animal sacrifice was scattered on the altar as a symbol of life. God told Moses that life was in the blood, and was given for atonement for his people. The actual sacrifice wasn’t the atonement, it was the belief in God’s forgiveness and promise of Jesus. When Jesus did come and sacrifice himself, his blood was finally an acceptable sacrifice, eliminating any other further sacrifice. This means we don’t have to try to earn salvation. Now all are made holy by Jesus’ blood, and it is forever. It is a common tie between all Christians. Now we are part of God’s plan, part of his church on earth.
Jesus fulfilled God’s law, and made it possible for us to be holy. This is so liberating and joyful that we should be the happiest people on earth! Accepting Jesus’ sacrifice is all we need to do! May God be praised!
Questions for Reflection:
- If someone has a really high opinion of you, what do you do to retain that opinion?
- Since God considers you holy, what changes do you make in your life to live up to being holy?
- God knows we are sinful here on earth, but still considers us holy. Knowing we can’t sacrifice anything or earn this holiness, how much does it make you want to share this with someone?
Prayer:
Dearest Lord, we thank and praise you for Jesus’ sacrifice and making us holy in your eyes. Change our outlook to reflect our holiness, accept our role in your church and help us live as messengers of your salvation. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
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