Our Scripture reading today is Exodus 20:24, "An altar of earth thou shalt make unto me, and shalt
sacrifice thereon thy burnt offerings, and thy peace offerings, thy sheep, and thine oxen: in all places
where I record my name I will come unto thee, and I will bless thee."
Preparation was made for the people to have a place to seek atonement for their sins.
The altar was that place designed by God to be used to sacrifice certain animals. The
shedding of blood was a picture of Jesus Christ's shed blood in the future. We no longer
make such sacrifices today due to the blood of God's Son being shed once for all.
There was also a blessing connected with sacrifice. The blessing was the very presence
of God. At the end of this verse it says, "I will come unto thee..." We also experience
this promise once the blood of Christ has been applied to our sinful account. God
immediately gives us His Spirit and He will never leave us. The presence of God goes
with us everywhere we go. Take time to thank Him for this glorious promise.
To God be all the glory!