I COULD HAVE BEEN A PRIEST
Today's reading: Leviticus 7-9

I could have been a priest.

Except for the fact that I'm not Jewish.

And, I'm not male.

And, I don't like dressing in layers.

And, I don't do well doing anything ritualistically.

And, I doubt I could cut up an oxen, sheep or goat--I buy boneless, skinless chicken breast.

I think I could have been a priest because of this one verse...

"But anything left over until the third day must be completely burned up." Leviticus 7:17

Burnt offerings, I could handle! My oven has produced many a smoking, smoldering, charred product. And left-overs? Anything not used in two days at our house is pitched! If the cooking's not good the first time around, it's futile to think it will improve by sitting in the fridge!

You do know the reason for God stating left-overs must be done away with, don't you? It's two-fold, really. First, He was wanting to insure that His people have a relationship with Him that was fresh. Day-to-day. Wonderfully new. He wants the same for us! Don't try to hobble through your week based upon what the preacher said in the pulpit, get into the Word each day for fresh meat!

Secondly? Our God is one of the present and the future, not the past! Every time you come before Him with an offering of worship, it's like the first time! He chooses not to remember past prayers, promises or please--He hangs on our every word. He desires to be involved with your day, your present needs and your dreams for the future! Left-overs are things of the past, He is not.

I've settled in the knowledge that I'll never be elected as priest, but I am refreshed in knowing I still have part in coming before God with my offerings, sacrifices and pledges of faith--fresh and new ones, at that.