Leviticus 9-11

Shmini - Eighth

Leviticus 9:1-2 It came to pass on the eighth day that Moses called Aaron and his sons and the elders of Israel. And he said to Aaron, “Take for yourself a young bull as a sin offering and a ram as a burnt offering, without blemish, and offer them before the LORD.” 

Link to full passage on Bible Gateway

Prayer: 

 

The glory of the LORD appeared to all the people, and fire came out from before the LORD and consumed the burnt offering and the fat on the altar. When all the people saw it, they shouted and fell on their faces. What a spectacular moment! And how exciting for Aaron's sons, Nadab and Abihu, to participate in this holy service. But they, getting carried away in the moment, each took his censer and put fire in it, put incense on it, and offered profane fire before the LORD, which He had not commanded them. The excitement of the moment took a tragic turn when immediately, fire went out from the LORD and devoured them, and Nadab and Abihu were struck dead.  And Moses said to Aaron, "This is what the LORD spoke, saying: 'By those who come near Me I must be regarded as holy; and before all the people I must be glorified.'" Dear Father, please help us to read and understand how this passage applies to us. Like the children of Israel, You have freed us from bondage that we may worship You. May we always be careful to come before You with respect and honor and praise. And may we heed Your command to be holy as You are holy, because You are our God.