Atonement

Everyone needed atonement, without exception-rich and poor, old and young, men and women. As God commanded, each person needed to have their sins forgiven in order to become right with Him.

Atonement was linked with the giving of an offering. Once a year, on the Day of Atonement, Aaron was to make atonement “with the blood of the sin offering” (v. 30). This was “most holy to the LORD.”

God also asked everyone to bring a half-shekel offering. No one could pay more or less. The price was the same for everyone, and no one had special privileges.

These same principles are true today, for “all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God” (Romans 3:23-27). This means no one can boast, for we all must depend on God’s grace. On the Cross, Jesus paid the price so that each person could be freed from their sins and forgiven.

The world may exalt people and give them special privileges because of their wealth, position, or fame. But none of these count when we stand before God. We’re all guilty in His sight, but we all have the same opportunity to have our sins forgiven and to become right with Him. The poor are not excluded because of what they lack, and the rich cannot buy His blessings with their many resources.

Just think! You may be experiencing pressure or stress. You may be carrying burdens. You may have doubts or worries. You may feel the nagging impact of sin. Or you may be experiencing pain or suffering. But God offers you total freedom, forgiveness, healing, and the opportunity to have an intimate, personal relationship with Him.

Humble yourself before the Lord today. Ask Him to cleanse you and set you free!