Gore to Glory

"Then slaughter the bull in the LORD's presence at the entrance of the Tabernacle. Put some of its blood on the horns of the altar with your finger, and pour out the rest at the base of the altar." Exodus 29:11-12

Some who read the verses above will become instantly squeamish. Slaughter? Dip our finger in blood? We don't even like the sight of it, so we definitely don't want to touch it. I know I personally hate driving by an accident. While other cars are slowing down and gawking at the scene, my focus is straight ahead as I pray for those who are receiving help from emergency medical services.

We certainly read a lot about blood throughout scripture. The word instantly can stir feelings of repulsion. The entertainment world has done a very good job at escalating this response. We see it as epitomizing everything that is evil and wrong in our world. The enemy enjoys encouraging this idea and even believers can struggle with questions regarding the apparent cruelty of God through all the descriptions of blood in His word.

We see blood as death, but God sees it as life. Even in this moment, blood is flowing through our veins carrying oxygen and nourishment through our body, enabling breath. Blood gives life, and the shedding of the blood of Jesus brings eternal life. Ephesians 1:7 says, "In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of His grace." Redemption through His blood will bring resurrection to new life.

Hebrews 9:22 tells us, "Without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness of sins." A blood sacrifice sanctifies. As the ancient altar was made holy through the shedding of blood, many years later the cross became a place of life through the crucifixion of Christ. Jesus transforms the image of blood from gore to glory.

Christ-followers, covered in the precious blood of Jesus, can enter His presence freely. To the believer it is an enduring precious treasure bringing cleansing, forgiveness, power and fellowship with God. We are forever beautifully stained, covered and washed by the blood of Christ.

With a new perspective, may we see both the necessity and the wonder of the blood of Jesus. Let's proclaim together these lyrics written in 1876 by Robert Lowry: "O precious is the flow that makes me white as snow, no other fount I know. Nothing but the blood of Jesus." 

Thank You for the blood.