Every high priest is appointed to offer both gifts and sacrifices, and so it was necessary for this one also to have something to offer. (Heb. 8:3)
Showing up empty handed is a social mistake in certain circles. For example, etiquette dictates that an invited dinner guest normally bring a little token of appreciation for the host or hostess. Nothing big, just a small gift. The item is an acknowledgment that there was good value in the event. Other situations begged similar signs of gratitude. Too large a gift would be considered payment for the host and therefore offensive. Nothing to give—showing up empty handed—would indicate that the event held no value and the host would be highly insulted.
To avoid this problem with our eternal host, the Lord God, priests were to offer gifts on behalf of the people and sacrifices for their sins. This practice was instituted by God through Moses and upheld through the years by the priests of Israel. Ultimately Jesus sacrificed his own life for our sin—an eternal gift once and for all.
A gift is not asked for or sought after by the recipient, but it is presented freely by the donor. It is a reflection of the true feelings of an individual. With deep love, Jesus gave the best gift to God and to us: himself. His gift to the Father is a gift we too can give Jesus: ourselves. The Savior invites and welcomes us, giving us freedom to choose whether we will give ourselves.
Offer yourself as a gift to God.
Randall A. Forbes is director of plant operations at Kingswood University. With a flair for the artistic, Randy’s secular life experience contributes to his unique perspective and application of biblical truths.
© 2019 Wesleyan Publishing House. Reprinted from Light from the Word. Used by permission.
Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®.
