First, I will highlight the less obvious, but no less crucial, insight of Leviticus 1–6. That insight begins with the title of the book. Without getting into a lengthy and detailed historic language lesson, I will only give one reason that I find the Hebrew title (one word, wayyikra) rather than the LXX title (Septuagint Greek, leyitikon, “things pertaining to Levites”) to be most astounding and informative.
Wayyikra is literally “and God called.” And God called . . . begins many of the passages in these first few chapters. God has always been a God who “speaks” and communicates with his people. He desires fellowship with his people. His original intent and plan was to do that directly and personally (as we see in Adam).
God’s call to Moses was Yahweh’s approach to making that fellowship happen. This reveals much about Yahweh and his love for ALL the people, not just the special ones. In Leviticus, God instructs the people through their mediator, Moses, exactly where and how they can meet with God.
Jesus is for us the perfect intermediary. For he has opened the way to the Father so that we can enter in to the fellowship that God has always desired for his children.
Are you being called to deeper intimacy with the Father? By having set apart this devotional time right now, you have taken the first step. Now, move closer in by simply thanking him for the call he placed on your heart to be near and to be quiet before him.
Dr. David C. Alves, Concord, N.H.
Extended Scripture: Leviticus 1–5
