For many people, reading about the sacrifices of ancient Israel is a real yawner. But if we think about the Thanksgiving holiday, one sacrifice rises from the ashes of antiquity to offer encouragement.
In the days of ancient Israel, a special offering, different from the ones required for sin, allowed a person to give God thanks for something the Lord had done.
Rituals are apparently irrational acts which become rational when their significance is explained. —Northrop Frye
Hidden behind the veil of ritual and strangeness are principles of timeless value for your life.
Now as for the flesh of the sacrifice of his thanksgiving peace offerings, it shall be eaten on the day of his offering; he shall not leave any of it over until morning. —Leviticus 7:15
The phrase, “Thanksgiving Peace Offering,” comes from the Hebrew word todah. Even today in Israel, the word means “thank you.”
But the term goes beyond simply meaning “thanks.” It means to acknowledge or praise. The worshiper would invite friends and family to come celebrate what God had done.
You know what I like? They ate it all. No leftovers!
A simple application from this ritual? We should share with others how God has blessed us.
This Thanksgiving, before the prayer for the turkey and yams, take a moment to share with others what God has done for you.
By principle, it still applies. We should always offer thanksgiving for God’s mercy.
Want to hear a message I gave about this offering and giving thanks? You can listen here.
Learn the top 6 Lessons from Visiting the Holy Land more than 20 times in 21 years with Dr. Wayne Stiles, a longtime devotional scholar who is passionate about sharing the practical application of bringing God's Word to life.
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