Before the Lord. Leviticus 14:11. The man approaches with hope, walking quietly while carrying lambs, oil, and fine flour—everything required by God. But it must be done correctly—God’s way—and on the right day. He is spotless. Not a hair on him is visible, and his clothes and body are freshly washed. He is coming today BEFORE THE LORD.
All things are open and naked before the eyes of Him with whom we have to do. I came to Him with nothing but evidence of sin that had been dealt with. Empty of self, all evidence of personal pride gone. Nothing is left to hide. Save me, O God.
The priest steps forward; his duty is clear. He lifts the lamb and the oil, holding them high, back and forth. People watch intently. The shaven man, looking so clean and hopeful, watches with shallow breaths to see what happens. The priest makes sure to offer in God’s way because he understands how important it is to do things right—BEFORE THE LORD.
A sacrifice for sin is made. A sinless victim has died, and blood has been shed. The blood of Jesus Christ, His Son, cleanses us from all sin. It is the blood that makes atonement for the soul. Without the shedding of blood, there is no remission. Thank God for the price the Savior paid.
The blood has been sprinkled: evidence is there on the hairless head of the man—his ear, hand, and foot have the red sign of sacrifice on them. Then, mixed with blood, oil is applied to the same places—the ear, thumb, and big toe. And the Lord watches because it is—BEFORE THE LORD.
When He, the Spirit of truth, comes, He will guide you into all truth. Conviction of sin reaches the ear. Righteousness has to do with the work of the hand. Judgment is at the end of the last step we make. Thank the Holy Spirit for divine acceptance.
All of the oil that was left was poured out on the head—the bald, shaven head—of the person who had leprosy and was kept separate from everyone for such a long time. The priest has made atonement for him—BEFORE THE LORD.
Accepted in the Beloved: what a blessing to have such assurance. Atonement makes us at one with the God of our salvation. That position never changes because I am “in Christ.”
Turtle doves can replace the poor. The eighth day is a special occasion. Something new has occurred. The priest has examined it, and the evidence proves — it's cleansed. A healing miracle has taken place. God has acted, and one is restored to God’s people. He takes his place – BEFORE THE LORD. In every aspect of cleansing, whether it be that cleansing from leprosy in the body, mildew in the house, uncleanness of the soul, or any uncleanness, there is a cleansing that God makes possible. I thank God for the full and complete cleansing He has given.