In Kidz Gang, we have been studying the Passover, preparing our hearts for Easter. While studying the Passover, something stood out to me-it became an offering message!
In the book of Exodus chapter 12 we read the story of the first passover. Concerning the sacrifice, the Israelites were instructed : ” In the tenth day of this month they shall take to them every man a lamb” (v3) They were to keep it with their families for four days. “And ye shall keep it until the fourteenth day of the same month: and the whole assembly of the congregation of Israel shall kill it in the evening.” (v6)
The families weren’t to just “point out” the animal, they were to “take it TO THEM” meaning keep it as part of their household for four days. I’m sure during this time they and their families probably began to form an attachment with the lamb. And we know kids bond very quickly with animals.
So when the time came for the WHOLE assembly of Israel to slaughter the lamb, I’m sure it wasn’t an easy thing to do. This was an animal that had begun to mean something to the family. But God didn’t want them to offer up something that meant nothing to them.
That’s what was going on in the temple when Jesus “overthrew the tables of the moneychangers in the temple” (Matthew 21:12). Some of the Israelites were going in to the temple to buy their animals for sacrifice-they weren’t taking it from one of their own, and they weren’t living with the animals for even one day, let alone four days. It was just a big swapmeet! Buy yourself an animal and head straight to the priest! A far cry from what God had instructed them to do.
So it should be when we give our time, talents, and money to God. It should cost us something. When we sacrifice our time to the Lord rather than doing what we want-our favorite pastimes; when we give gifts bestowed upon us back to God, this is pleasing to Him. This brings God joy!
In this season as we celebrate the Passover and reflect on how God gave His best, let’s focus on giving OUR best. Let’s take some of our free time and offer it back up to God. If you’re like me and saying you’re saying to yourself, “what free time??” Then God will honor it all the more!!
Remember, it’s only what we do for Christ that will last.
Love you all!
Regina
Fast: Liquids all day
Prayer Target: Property Expansion
Challenge: Invite a family over, make dinner for them
"A Call to Arms" Fasting Forum 2015 