This evening begins the Day of Atonement. In this celebration, two identical goats were brought to the high priest. One goat would be sacrificed as a sin-offering and its blood sprinkled on the Mercy Seat in the Most Holy Place. Then the high priest would come out and confess all the sins of the nation for the past year upon the head of the second goat, and they would send it away into the wilderness never to return.
This picture taught that the blood, which paid for sins, also removes them, and was fulfilled “once and for all” in Jesus… “As far as the east is from the west, so far has He removed our transgressions from us” – (Psalm 103:12). This day was called a Sabbath, for there is no work for anyone to do, but to rest by faith in the finished work of Jesus.
While this day has yet a future fulfilment for the nation of Israel, Jesus still invites sinners to “Come: find rest for your souls.” Even the worst sin-stains on hearts and consciences, can be made “as white as snow.”
It is only the perfect work of Christ that saves and perfects those who believe... Not by the blood of bulls and goats, but by His own blood, He entered once-for-all into the Holy Place (Heaven), having obtained ETERNAL REDEMPTION for us… that we might receive the promise of ETERNAL INHERITANCE… for by one offering He has PERFECTED FOREVER those that are sanctified (set apart from the world by faith in Him) – (Hebrews 9:12,15;10:14).
If you’re a Believer in Christ, may this day be a day of reflection and awe at His amazing gift of salvation. If you’re not a Believer, I pray you hear His voice to come “find rest for your soul” today.
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