Thursday, January 20, 2011

2nd Week, Ordinary Time, Friday, 21-01-11

Hebrews 8:6-13 / Mark 3:13-19

Sacrifice has always been a fundamental aspect in any religion.

The sacrifice can be anything from the produce of the land to animal sacrifices, and in primitive cults there are even human sacrifices.

But why is sacrifice so important? What is the real meaning behind the sacrifice?

Sacrifice establishes the relationship between a deity and its devotees.

The Bible calls that a covenant, and usually a sacrifice of blood from animals seals the covenant.

The symbolism is that if ever the covenant is broken, then the people's blood will be shed.

But in Christianity, if is God who seals the covenant with us.

And when we break that covenant by sinning against God, instead of us having to shed our blood, it is God who sheds His "blood" in the person of Jesus Christ.

So whenever we make sacrifices like giving way to others, holding back our cutting tongues or doing a thankless task, there is nothing that we can take merit for.

Because on the cross, God sacrificed Himself and shed His blood to show that He not only forgives our sins, but He will also never call them to mind again.

So just as Jesus laid down His life lovingly for us, let us see on the cross His call to us to also lay down our lives in love for others.