Hebrews 9:2-3, 11-14; Psalm 47; Mark 3:20-21
What the blood of animals could not do; the blood of Christ did. With Christ, we have the means of restoring our inner holiness through his blood which he gave us. The “blood of Christ” is used several times in the New Testament to mean the sacrificial death and full atoning work of Jesus on our behalf. The reality of the blood of Christ as the means of atonement for sin has its origin in the Mosaic Law. Once a year, the priest was to make an offering of the blood of animals on the altar of the temple for the sins of the people. “In fact, the law requires that nearly everything be cleansed with blood, and without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness” (Heb.9:22). But this was a blood offering that was limited in its effectiveness, which is why it had to be offered again and again. The blood of Christ was “once for all” sacrifice (Heb.7:27). Once that sacrifice was made, there was no longer a need for the blood of bulls and goats. The gospel reading literally demonstrated how Christ gave himself to the people. Christ served the people passionately that his own people felt “He has gone out of his mind.” Beloved, serving God and people literally appears as if one is out of his mind. But in truth what seems like madness to the world is wisdom in the sight of God.
Prayer
Great is the wisdom of the Lord! God Almighty, your Wisdom includes an understanding of what is fair, what is logical, what is true, what is right and what is lasting. It mirrors your pure intellect! I entreat you to grant me such wisdom, that my labours and worship may reflect your insight. Your Wisdom expands in your creations, displaying complexity and multiplicity. Your Wisdom is an eternity ahead of man. May your wisdom flourish forever!
