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There was a very simple principle demonstrated in Leviticus 4, a passage that I read this morning.

The greater the responsibility a person had in God’s kingdom, the greater the cost of the sacrifice needed to gain God’s forgiveness.

If the high priest sinned, he was to sacrifice a bull at the altar according to the detailed instructions of Leviticus 4.

If a leader among the people sinned, a male goat was to be sacrificed.

If a member of the community sinned, a female goat or female lamb was to be the sin offering. If that person couldn’t afford a goat or lamb, then two doves or pigeons could be sacrificed. If the person were a pauper, then some fine flour could be given as a sacrifice.

Bull. Male goat. Female goat.

Why a different standard for sacrifice?

Perhaps it was because of the principle taught by Jesus in Luke 12:47-48.

That servant who knows his master’s will and does not get ready or does not do what his master wants will be beaten with many blows. But the one who does not know and does things deserving punishment will be beaten with few blows. From everyone who has been given much, much will be demanded; and from the one who has been entrusted with much, much more will be asked.”

Please pray for your congregation’s leaders, particularly your pastor or preacher or whatever you call him. They are accountable to a higher standard and face a greater consequence if they fail.

Yes, it is the uniformly potent blood of Jesus that takes away the sin of pastor and the sin of the pew-sitter. But there is no denying that fallen leaders have much more work facing them when it comes to cleaning up the rubble and rebuilding their lives.

They’re flesh, just like you. That’s why they need prayers from you so their hands and lips provide deeds and words that serve God rather than shaming themselves.

And while you’re at it, please pray that you become more like Christ. Even though we don’t sacrifice female goats anymore, it’s a whole lot better to avoid the need for forgiveness.

As always, I love you
Martin

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