There is a slow flurrying of snow outside the office today giving the air a feeling that is both light and playful but also gray and heavy. Perhaps it is just the state of my soul this morning that the joy and levity of life along with its brokenness and heaviness is before me. Either way, the truth of the gospel is the bright shining ray amidst a world that is always quite mingled with the joy and dreariness of life under the sun. God has not forsaken us, he has not left us alone, he reminds us each day of his renewing work through sacrifice and atonement.
Meditating on the great themes of the books of Exodus and Leviticus has really brought a steady joy to my life amidst some of the craziest days for my family and ministry. God has been the constant through every change. His Word and his way stand firm. He calls us to follow and be used by him in every age. Will we follow? Being a learner and follower of Jesus is an every day affair. Life is always on and flowing. Yet there are special seasons and special days in the life of God’s people.
In the
Old Testament the establishment of the yearly Day of Atonement was one
of them. Yom Kippur, the Day of Atonement…a special day, pointing to
special realities that hold deep and crucial meaning for the follower of
Jesus. This week and next at Jacob's Well we will walk into the super bowl of
sacrifices. In doing so we will expand our view of Jesus as we head
through the season of Lent, even Leventicus, to the party of all parties
on Easter Sunday. So thankful today.