A Niggling Question

Someone once said to me that the blood of animals given in sacrifice for sin (in the Old Testament) can only cover sin, but only the blood of Jesus can erase sin?

Indeed, Hebrews 10:1-18 speaks of this (I quote here the relevant verses):

Verse 4: It is impossible for the blood of bulls and goats to take away sins.

Verse 10: ...we have been made holy through the sacrifice of the body of Jesus Christ once for all.

To be holy, one's sins would have to be erased, not covered!

I had always accepted this gladly (since the life of a human is often regarded as much more valuable than that of an animal), however something about it niggled me (for years!) - notably, why? How come? What would be the explanation for this truth?

God's Answer

I had never really pursued God for an answer, but He knew of the niggle in my heart. So, just a few days ago, He gave me the explanation that was simple, yet powerful and mind blowing. He said:

• An animal sacrificed, given as a sin offering, did NOT have a choice. It was led away to be killed, it didn't even know what for!

• On the other hand, Jesus DID HAVE A CHOICE. He didn't have to sacrifice Himself for our sins, yet He did so because He loved us so much and He wanted to reconcile us back to God.

John 15:13: Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.

John 10:11: “I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep..."

John 10:17-18: The reason my Father loves me is that I lay down my life—only to take it up again. No one takes it from me, but I lay it down of my own accord.

It was this very "choice/decision" that made the blood of Jesus carry so much power! Jesus knew He was led away to be killed, He knew His life would serve as payment for our sin, yet He did so willingly. His blood carried so much power - so strong, immeasurable, and everlasting - that not only can it heal sicknesses and diseases, but also forgive the sins of anyone who comes to Him, regardless of time, even now 2000 years later.

It was yet more humbling for me to know that He made that decision long before I was even born (knowing ahead of time that I would be born and how much I would need the power of His blood!). Oh, what sacrifice!

Glory be to my love and Lord, Jesus Christ!

© Elma Larsen. All rights reserved.