Beech Tree News Network

               The worship of the Old Testament was certainly a “hands-on” religion! Beginning in Leviticus three, God tells a person to “lay his hand” on the animal to be sacrificed before dealing the death-blow (Lev. 3:2, 8, 13 4:4, 24, 29, 33). Reading these passages made me pause and ask why God thought that necessary.

               Laying a hand on something produces a connection that is not felt in any other way. It is one thing to have an animal killed or to watch it done from a distance. It is entirely different to touch the animal, realize it has life in it, and know that you will take its life. Our society is very much “hands-off” when it comes to preparing animals for meals. I know many who become squeamish, and some become visibly sick when discussing the finer points of “food processing!” The reality of getting your meal from the pasture, or woods, to the table is something that they cannot contemplate. When I read Leviticus 3, 4, etc., I think how many today would cringe and even wretch if they had to stand at the altar and touch their cow, lamb, or goat (Lev. 3:1, 7, 12) and then take its life and continue the process of offering it to God!

               Why touch the animal? May I suggest that touching the animal before its death brings a personal aspect to the offering that might not be realized any other way. This animal that belonged to you, that you raised and kept healthy (Lev. 3:1), must now die for something that you did! You must touch it! You must look into its eyes, and you must hear the last gurgling sounds as its life ebbs away. This animal had its blood poured out and sprinkled around the altar (Lev. 3:2, 8, 13) because you wish to have peace with God once more!

               We know we are not subject to the Old Law (Heb. 9:15-17, 10:9). Yet, a Lamb was offered for our sins (Jn. 1:29). His blood was poured out (Jn. 19:34; Heb. 9:14) that we might have salvation (Matt. 26:28; Lk. 19:10). We were not there to touch Him as He died, but we need to make this event personal. Realize that Jesus was not crucified because of His sins but because of ours (I Pet. 2:22). Realize that just as the animal in the Mosaic period was innocent, so also Christ was innocent – even Pilate said so (Matt. 27:23-24)! If one’s emotions are stirred at the thought of an animal dying, how much more ought we be stirred when we allow the crucifixion of Christ to fill our minds!

               In your mind’s eye, see yourself laying your hand upon the thorn-pierced head of Christ. Look into His eyes and tell Him He has to die so you can be cleansed! Unlike the animals who suffered unwillingly, it was Jesus who went willingly to the cross (Jn. 10:18; Titus 2:14)! He knew what He was doing and why (Jn. 18:36-37)!

               We do not know the attitude of those in the Old Testament following the peace offering, but we can have the right attitude when we understand Christ fills that place in our lives. “He is our peace” (Eph. 2:14-15; Col. 1:20)! What will you do now that you know Christ is our peace offering? Will you give your life to Him (II Cor. 5:14-15)? Will you obey His will and be saved (Mk. 16:16)? How could you refuse?

-- You are invited to visit with the Caneyville church of Christ. Times of services: Sun.: 10:00 am, 10:45 am, 5:00 pm; Wed.: 7:00 pm. Website: http://caneyvillechurchofchrist.com Tune in to our radio program 101.5 FM at 5:30 am, Mon-Fri. Questions? Call: (270) 589-4167