Tuesday, April 11, 2023

Worship in the Wilderness #2: The Grain Offering


Read Leviticus 2

Background: The grain offering is listed second after the Burnt Offering, as it was often offered with it. Because one had received forgiveness from sin by God's gracious provision, they would also bring a grain offering to show thanksgiving and devotion.  Rather than there being and "either or" as with Cain and Abel's sacrifice, this was a "both and." As always, it was not just the ritual; God was looking at the heart.

Key verses: 1 “When anyone brings a grain offering as an offering to the Lord, his offering shall be of fine flour. He shall pour oil on it and put frankincense on it 2 and bring it to Aaron's sons the priests. And he shall take from it a handful of the fine flour and oil, with all of its frankincense, and the priest shall burn this as its memorial portion on the altar, a food offering with a pleasing aroma to the Lord. 3 But the rest of the grain offering shall be for Aaron and his sons; it is a most holy part of the Lord's food offerings.

Thoughts: The chapter goes on to tell of two other ways the offering could be given: in the form of a baked cake, or the grain itself.  There were two things mixed in with any form: salt, representing preservation or fidelity of the covenant relationship, and frankincense, representing the sweet aroma going up to God.  There was also one thing never to be a part of the offering: leaven, representing sin.  

God has many ways for us to show our love and commitment to Him.  Gratitude is important, especially when it comes to our salvation.  It shows the sincerity of our faith. 

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