Scripture: Leviticus 5:5-6
…at that point, when you have become guilty of sin in one of these ways, you must confess how you have sinned and bring to the LORD as compensation for the sin that was committed a female from the flock, either a sheep or goat, as a purification offering. The priest will then make reconciliation for you, to remove your sin.
Thought for the Day: I am intrigued by the language in this passage. First, it suggests we are to confess “how” we have sinned. That’s a bit different then simply confessing the sin. To ask the HOW is to encourage a discussion on the motivation behind the sinning and the weakness within us that might have played a role. Second, it speaks of “compensation” and “purification” as the reasons for the offering. Too often people think of these ancient offerings as bribery or appeasement gifts. “Oh please don’t strike me down, Lord. Here is a gift.” A few folks in scripture appeared to see it in those terms, but the God of grace and mercy isn’t looking at the world and thinking, “All I need is some goat’s blood. I will feel better and won’t smite the wrongdoers.” That doesn’t sound like God. That sounds a lot like a human being who can’t quite deal with his/her anger issues. In both the confession and the offering, it is clear that human beings are the intended recipients of what is being taught. It is to provide both a process and a meaningful ritual to once again feel as if we, as human beings, are in a right relationship with God. God is always in right relationship with us through the gift of unconditional love, but if we are honest with ourselves about our sins and failures, then our guilt and shame need to find release if we are going to be comfortable with God.
Prayer: Let me find the gifts you give, O Gracious Creator, so I can feel at ease before you. Amen.
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