Thought from today’s Bible reading from Leviticus 5-7.
If one of the Israelites under the Law of Moses sinned, he was to offer a sacrifice.
“He shall also bring his guilt offering to the Lord for his sin which he has committed, a female from the flock, a lamb or a goat as a sin offering. So the priest shall make atonement on his behalf for his sin” (Leviticus 5:6).
Specific instructions were given regarding this sacrifice. But what if one did not have this to sacrifice? Would he be exempt? Would be unable to have atonement made for his sins? No, God made a provision for one who was not able to produce this sacrifice.
“But if he cannot afford a lamb, then he shall bring to the Lord his guilt offering for that in which he has sinned, two turtledoves or two young pigeons, one for a sin offering and the other for a burnt offering” (Leviticus 5:7).
If one did not have a lamb or goat to offer, he was allowed to offer two turtledoves or pigeons. The Lord even made an allowance for those who could not even bring this sacrifice.
“But if his means are insufficient for two turtledoves or two young pigeons, then for his offering for that which he has sinned, he shall bring the tenth of an ephah of fine flour for a sin offering” (Leviticus 5:11).
Humble circumstances would not exempt one from his obligations before God, nor would they prevent one from pleasing the Lord. God is willing to accept everyone, regardless of our circumstances (cf. Galatians 3:28). He has made His commandments such that all can obey His will.
As John writes, “His commandments are not burdensome” (1 John 5:3).
Tomorrow’s reading: Leviticus 8-10
[I’m using the Chronological reading plan on the Bible Gateway website if you’d like to follow along, too.]
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