The Gravity of Sin

Upon reading in the book of Leviticus, I am struck by the tremendous lengths to which the people had to go to secure forgiveness. Such ceremony and sacrifice seems quite strange to us. Depending on a high priest to make our statement for us is also foreign. I believe that part of the reason for such ceremony is to continually remind the people of the seriousness of sin. To regularly see this shedding of blood would have to have a tremendous impact on the people. The realization that bloodshed is the required payment is a heavy one, and I believe is intended to prevent people from slipping back into their old way of life. The absence of these things could, theoretically, make it easier to forget the gravity of sin.

I say, we should always remember. Let us not forget what a privilege it is to not depend on an earthly priest to make our statement for us anymore. Also, let us not allow the fact that the shedding of blood is not a regular and active part of our worship prevent us from remembering the gravity of our sin and that the ultimate in sacrifices has already been made.