Leviticus chapter 8 continues the theme of detailed instruction on sacrifices. This chapter specifically focuses on how Aaron and his sons, the priests, must make themselves pure before they perform the sacrifices on behalf of the Israelites.

Just by chance, I read this sentence this morning upon finishing up with chapter 8. In his book, The Faith, Chuck Colson writes about Jesus as the pure, innocent sacrifice for our sin before God. I made the connection with Leviticus 8 because of the fact that, not only were the animals to be made pure, but the priests were to be made pure before performing the sacrifice. Read what Colson says about Christ as the innocent sacrifice:

“And it was essential He do it this way. Jesus could never have been the Savior of humankind if He were born into sin, because then His death on the cross would be for His own sins, not for ours alone. Only a totally sinless savior could take our sins upon Himself…” (pg 84)

What does it mean to you that Christ lived a completely innocent life, void of any sin? To me, this is encouragement. I have a awesome example of how to live a life that is pleasing to God. Christ commands us to be like Him.

It pierces my heart that there was no earthly reason why HE was found guilty by the Israelites. But, there was a HEAVENLY reason why. God wanted to be in fellowship with His children. The only way that is possible is for us to be made pure before we can be in His presence. Jesus was just that.

Pure- sinless, guiltless, no fault found EVER. No idiosyncrasies, no vices, no addictions, no anger issues, no rage, no violence, no lust, no vanity, no pride, no selfishness, no over-indulgence…

The list could go on and on. The question is, can you wrap your mind around the fact that His is completely Holy? This is imperative that you at least try to because we must lift Him up to a level in which we worship Him as Holy, Pure, and Powerful.

LIVE IT OUT! application:
Think about this list above and come up with your own faults. Then, please get in a position of prayer and thank Him wholeheartedly for taking your place and being Absolutely Innocent.