Growing older, I have noticed something very strange. Where my skin used to be clear, there are now marks and blemishes. I have moles I did not have before, and other assorted spots, marks, and scars. A funny thing has happened to my face too. Wrinkles have appeared and my hair has turned gray and is falling out at an increasing pace. Now I will admit to my share of vanity, but these are the sorts of things I have never thought too much about. I supposed ladies did that, thereby keeping the cosmetics and beauty industry a booming business. But perhaps we all might admit, if we could be spotless, without blemish, no age spots, scars, moles, marks, disfigurements, etc. we probably would choose to be so.
In Lev. 3, the Lord required that the peace offering be made from the herd without blemish. That would have been a very special offering the people of that day, a fellowship offering to God, an offering in which they could eat some of the meat, having burned some and given some to the priests.
What then, do we have to offer God given that none of us are without blemish? We are all spotted, marked, and scarred in some way. Sin and its deadly effects have taken their toll on each of us, not just by outward marks, but by inward marks on the soul. In such a condition what do we have to offer God? Is there any hope?
Yes, there is, for a spotless offering has been made on our behalf, and being part of that family, we are able to have peace with God. What was that offering? It was Jesus Christ. He was the spotless lamb of God who was given to make peace and we are those who by faith receive the blessing of His sacrifice.
May the peace of God guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.
As I read through this, I am reminded of the song "At the Cross." Though undeseving, He took me under His wings- to love and grow me into His grace. Even as I reflect deep within my heart, God sees no blemish in and on me. He looks at me through the eyes of His love and compassion.
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