Making Sense out of Leviticus #14

Today's reading: Leviticus 26-27.

Today is the last reading day in Leviticus. (And for those of you following my complete schedule, it is the last day in Matthew as well). I do plan to continue blogging each day on the reading. Right now I am planning on blogging on the daily reading in Numbers and in Romans. Since the reading is less difficult than Leviticus to understand, I think we can do both and enjoy it thoroughly. So thank you for reading and let's continue to read the Book of all Books - His.

Leviticus 26 is a bit of a "summary of the Covenant"chapter. It reminds me of many of the chapters in Deuteronomy. We will see that when we get there. This chapter outlines the basic Old Testament principle of "Rewards for Obedience," and "Punishment for Disobedience." Our legalistic minds are blessed by this and we would readily take it to heart.

While this principle is an "always works" principle, it is a lower principle than the one of grace. This is the basic, "what you sow is what you reap," principle which is repeated, especially regarding our money in the New Testament (2 Corinthians 8-9). However, in grace, there is a higher working principle. In Christ, we reap what He has sown. Our obedience is the product of faith through love and always brings a harvest of goodness to His glory. However, we do not give, nor love, nor behave ourselves for the reward of that action. Rather we do those things because we are those things in His love, provision, forgiveness and goodness. Again I am reminded of Titus 2:11-12, "For the grace of God has appeared that offers salvation to all people. It etches us to say 'No' to ungodliness and worldly passions and to lived self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age." (NIV) That is the action of grace in and on our lives.

Chapter 27 repeats and furthers the understanding of redemption under the Old Covenant. Redemption was a process of "buying back" a dedicated animal. It was the process by which all became the Lord's. It was on the basis of blood that all things were redeemed. Their animals were their participation in this understanding. To be "dedicated" to the Lord mean't everything - even the life. It was not a casual thing, but a life thing. It is also that today. However, He does not want dead sacrifices, but living ones. (Romans 12:1). He wants to live in us -- with us, enjoying life and bringing much joy in it. There are depths to be dug here, so I leave you with these thoughts. Enjoy Him today.

Tomorrow's reading: Numbers 1-2, Romans 1, Psalm 78. Join me.