The Bible Daily Read

Today’s reading brings us into the Book of Leviticus, beginning with chapters 1–3. After the dramatic events of Exodus—the liberation from Egypt, the revelation at Sinai, and the construction of the Tabernacle—Leviticus zeroes in on the details of Israel’s worship and sacrificial system. Though the text may initially seem distant from modern realities, these opening chapters provide profound insights into the nature of devotion, community, and the cost of reconciling broken relationships.

Leviticus 1 outlines the burnt offering, where an animal—cattle, sheep, goat, or bird—was completely consumed on the altar. The worshiper laid hands on the animal, symbolically identifying with it, before the sacrifice. Old Testament scholar Dr. John Walton observes that this act underscored the seriousness of sin and the worshiper’s personal engagement in seeking restoration. From a contemporary standpoint, we may not burn offerings, but the principle remains: true worship often requires something of us, be it time, resources, or the willingness to confront our failures. While the ancient Israelites used an altar of fire, we might instead consider how we invest ourselves—through genuine repentance, service, or acts of compassion—to honor God and foster healing in our communities.

Moving to Leviticus 2, we encounter the grain offering, a gesture of thanksgiving. Grain, flour, oil, and incense were combined, and a portion was burned on the altar, while the remainder went to support the priests. This framework for worship revolved around gratitude and provision. Even today, our expressions of thankfulness are meant not just for our own fulfillment, but also to bless those around us. Think of volunteering at a food bank, donating to a cause, or simply sharing your resources with a neighbor in need. By dedicating part of what we have for the benefit of others, we mirror the generosity embedded in the grain offering, recognizing that our blessings ultimately come from a divine source.

Lastly, Leviticus 3 addresses the fellowship (or peace) offering, symbolizing communion between the worshiper, the priest, and God. Portions of the sacrifice were consumed by the worshiper and the priest, while the blood and fat were devoted to God. This act fostered a sense of shared table fellowship—an ancient equivalent of a communal meal that signified deeper relationships and unity. In modern life, communal gatherings still hold a special significance, whether around a dinner table or in broader cultural events. Sharing meals or experiences can serve as a sacred bond, reminding us that spiritual growth is often nurtured in community rather than isolation.

While Leviticus’ sacrificial laws may seem foreign, they revolve around enduring themes: acknowledging our need for reconciliation, expressing gratitude through tangible offerings, and fostering communal bonds. These chapters challenge us to consider the cost of our commitments—be they spiritual, relational, or ethical. In an era where convenience sometimes overshadows depth, Leviticus 1–3 encourages a more intentional posture toward worship and community. Instead of literal altars and animal sacrifices, we can offer our time, resources, and hearts in ways that reflect these ancient patterns of devotion.

As you reflect on these chapters, consider where you might need to pause and offer genuine confession or thanks. How can you intentionally share your resources—whether talents, finances, or time—with those who serve and support you? And in what ways can you create (or join) sacred spaces of fellowship, celebrating milestones and cultivating unity with others? Although the cultural forms have changed, the essence of these sacrifices still speaks: true worship involves acknowledging our brokenness, honoring the One who provides for us, and celebrating the bonds that make us a community.