Why is it important to offer "a memorial portion" as described in Leviticus 6:15? Opening Verse “From the grain offering he shall remove a handful of fine flour together with its oil and all its frankincense, and the priest shall burn this memorial portion on the altar as a pleasing aroma to the LORD.” (Leviticus 6:15) What the Memorial Portion Is • A small, representative handful of the grain offering, mixed with oil and frankincense • Set apart exclusively for the altar—no one eats it (contrast Leviticus 2:10) • Consumed by fire, turning the gift entirely God-ward as “a pleasing aroma” Why Offering It Matters • Acknowledges God’s ownership of the whole – Psalm 24:1: “The earth is the LORD’s, and the fullness thereof.” – By surrendering the first handful, the worshiper confesses that every kernel belongs to the Lord. • Sanctifies the remainder for priestly use – Leviticus 2:3 shows that what is left becomes “most holy” because the first part was offered. • Creates a tangible “memorial” before God – Numbers 5:26 uses the same term for a portion that brings the worshiper to God’s remembrance. – Hebrews 10:3 notes that offerings act as “a reminder of sins,” keeping the covenant relationship vivid. • Produces a “pleasing aroma” that signifies acceptance – Ephesians 5:2 ties this phrase to Christ’s sacrifice, assuring us that God is satisfied. • Models thankful dependence – Deuteronomy 8:10 reminds Israel to “bless the LORD your God for the good land,” and the memorial portion does exactly that. • Teaches proportional giving – Proverbs 3:9: “Honor the LORD with your wealth, with the firstfruits.” – The handful is small, yet it represents the best and first. Spiritual Lessons for Today • Even a “handful” offered in faith delights God. • Setting apart the first part reorients the heart for the rest of the day, paycheck, harvest, or project. • Worship includes remembrance; we need regular, concrete acts that call God’s faithfulness to mind (Psalm 103:2). Christ and the Memorial Portion • Jesus is the ultimate “firstfruits” (1 Corinthians 15:20). • His self-offering fulfills every “pleasing aroma,” guaranteeing our acceptance. • Because He gave Himself wholly, our smaller offerings become meaningful reflections, not attempts at atonement (Hebrews 10:14). Personal Application • Begin tasks or meals with a deliberate moment of thanksgiving—your modern memorial portion. • Designate the first slice of income for kingdom work; let it sanctify the budget that follows. • Use tangible reminders—journals, offerings, acts of service—to keep God’s faithfulness constantly “before” Him and you. |
    |