Forgiveness

The fire must be kept burning on the altar continuously; it must not go out. Leviticus 6:13 (NIV)

This instruction to the priests is mentioned three times in the space of five verses (6:9-13). Obviously, this was something that was important to God, but why?

Under the old covenant, sacrifices burned on the altar were the means by which sins were forgiven. A flame that burned continuously symbolized that God was always ready to forgive sin. All a person had to do was offer the proper sacrifice and their sin was forgiven.

The proper sacrifice was offered up on our behalf when Jesus died on the cross. When we repent, God is still ready to forgive sin - any time, any place. As far as God is concerned, the altar fire continues to burn brightly.

Father, thank you for providing this wonderful image of your forgiveness. You are such a great God!

JIM