Day 47..."Sacrifices, Shout for joy, Prepare"

We begin Leviticus today. Our pace will be slower, as the reading will cover much detail. Today, in chapter one are the specifics of sacrifices. Atonement is an important issue in these times of "pre-cross" rituals. The Book of Hebrews will help us make the connection with the Old Testament rituals and Jesus' once and for all atonement. In the book of Leviticus...we will read from a pre-Christian view remembering atonement came through animal sacrifices. The Psalmist is upbeat in writing..." Clap your hands, all peoples!Shout to God with loud songs of joy! For the Lord, the Most High, is to be feared,a great king over all the earth. He subdued peoples under us,and nations under our feet. He chose our heritage for us,the pride of Jacob whom he loves." The Matthew readings focus on preparing for the end. In each case, we must be ready to live or die. The end of the world is not even known by the Son of Man. The important message for me is to make the most of every moment and trust God with the future. One reassuring word about our voyage is that "the Word of the Lord endures forever."