In what ways can we offer our "grain offering" and "drink offering" today? Setting the Scene “Then the LORD spoke to Moses, saying, ‘Speak to the Israelites and say to them: When you enter the land I am giving you and you eat the bread of the land, you shall present an offering to the LORD. From the first of your dough you are to present an offering…’ ” (Numbers 15:17-20). Old-covenant worshipers brought grain and drink offerings to acknowledge God’s daily provision and to express thanksgiving and joy. Though the temple rituals have been fulfilled in Christ, the heart behind these offerings still guides our worship today. What the Old Offerings Meant • Grain offering (Leviticus 2): the fruit of ordinary labor, presented unleavened, mingled with oil and frankincense—an aroma pleasing to the LORD. • Drink offering (Numbers 15:1-10): wine poured out beside the altar, testifying to covenant joy and total surrender. Both were voluntary, free-will gifts; neither dealt with sin but celebrated fellowship. Fulfillment in Christ • Jesus called Himself “the bread of life” (John 6:35). • At the Last Supper He said, “This cup is the new covenant in My blood, which is poured out for you” (Luke 22:20). • Because His once-for-all sacrifice is complete (Hebrews 10:10-14), our offerings now flow from gratitude, not obligation. Practical Ways to Offer Grain Offerings Today 1. Daily Work Dedicated to God – “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord” (Colossians 3:23). – Commit every task—office spreadsheets, homeschool lessons, farm chores—as an act of worship. 2. Material Generosity – Set aside “the firstfruits of all your harvest” (Proverbs 3:9) by budgeting giving before spending. – Share meals, groceries, or baked bread with neighbors as tangible thanksgiving. 3. Hospitality and Service – Like the grain mixed with oil, blend your skills with the Spirit’s anointing to feed others spiritually and physically (1 Peter 4:9-11). 4. Creative Arts in Worship – Offer music, writing, craftsmanship—frankincense-like aromas rising to God (Exodus 35:30-35). 5. Intentional Gratitude – Keep a gratitude journal, voicing praise for everyday “bread” (James 1:17). Practical Ways to Offer Drink Offerings Today 1. Poured-Out Praise – “Through Jesus, therefore, let us continually offer to God a sacrifice of praise” (Hebrews 13:15). – Sing, testify, and thank Him publicly, allowing joy to spill over. 2. Self-Sacrificial Service – Paul said, “Even if I am being poured out like a drink offering… I rejoice” (Philippians 2:17). – invest time in mentoring, caregiving, mission trips—costly but fragrant. 3. Endurance in Suffering – “I am already being poured out” (2 Timothy 4:6). Respond to trials with faith, showing Christ’s worth. 4. Communion Participation – The cup reminds us of Christ’s blood and our unity. Approach the Lord’s Table with joyful surrender (1 Corinthians 10:16). 5. Joyful Giving – “God loves a cheerful giver” (2 Corinthians 9:7). Generosity that flows freely mirrors wine poured out at the altar. Living the Offering Every Day • Start mornings by verbally dedicating your schedule to God—your “grain.” • End days by thanking Him for moments of joy and pouring out concerns—your “drink.” • Remember: “Therefore I urge you, brothers, on account of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God—this is your spiritual service of worship” (Romans 12:1). In Christ, every spreadsheet, loaf of bread, shared cup of coffee, and late-night act of kindness can rise to God with the same fragrance that once ascended from Israel’s altar. |
    |