The Day of Atonement is the most important religious festival of Israel because it is on this day in a whole year that atonement is made for the sins of the nation. To ensure that the purpose of the day is not marred by any tragedy, God gave specific warnings and instructions on how the High Priest should go about the whole process. Notice the warning God gave Aaron in v. 2? Do you have similar warnings about the way we approach and worship God in the New Testament era or are we free to approach God just anyhow? See Hebrews 10:22.
Go through vs. 4-14 again carefully observe the meticulous personal preparation (vs. 3-4) and the elaborate sacrifices required of Aaron before he could enter God's presence (vs. 6, 11-14). Today, we have an easier access to God. The Lord Jesus has opened the way to God for us (Hebrews 10:19-20). However, this does not give us license to approach God's throne thoughtlessly and irreverently. As we prepare to worship God, we must examine our lives and prepare our hearts, so that we do not incur his wrath (see 1 Corinthians 13:27-31; Leviticus 10:1-2).
True spiritual worship requires careful preparation of our hearts (John 4:24).
Thank you, Lord, for the privilege of free access that I have to you. Help me not to take you for granted nor approach you frivolously.
©Scripture Union Nigeria
REMAIN BLESSED!
