THE BLOOD
Today's reading: Leviticus 16-18

"...It is the blood, representing life, that brings you atonement." Leviticus 17: 11 NLT

Blood-the fluid that circulates in the heart, arteries, capillaries, and veins of a vertebrate animal carrying nourishment and oxygen to and bringing away waste products from all parts of the body

Atonement-the reconciliation of God and humankind through the sacrificial death of Jesus Christ

Just definitions, or a reminder to us as to what Christ's blood did for us? Has what Jesus did on the cross become common? Memorized? Taken for granted?

Our hands were tied as to anything we could do to bridge the chasm between our lives and God's throne. We were, and are, completely incapable of approaching a Holy throne and making amends. We lack all required to be holy enough to speak to our Creator.

But Christ died. Shed His blood. Offered His life for ours. Redeemed. Bought back. Paid in full. Gave us life, eternal life!

Did you need the reminder?

It is true that we are sinners – but Christ has suffered for us. It is true that we deserve death – but Christ has died for us. It is true that we are guilty debtors – but Christ has paid our debts with His own blood. This is the real Gospel! On this let us lean while we live. To this let us cling when we die. Christ has been "lifted up" on the cross, and has thrown open the gates of heaven to all believers.- J. C. Ryle