Come Honestly First — Aaron's Altar and Holy Work
Aaron's first offering was for himself. Not because he was broken. Because he was honest. And in that honesty, he discovered something we all need to know: the fire that lights the altar comes from God, not from you.
Picture yourself standing at the edge of something you feel called to do. Leading the small group. Praying out loud for a friend who is hurting. Walking into the hard conversation you have been avoiding. And in that pause before you move, a familiar voice rehearses every reason you are the wrong person. I have not even dealt with my own mess. Who am I to help anyone? Let that moment sit for a second. Most of us know it well.
But what if the order of that feeling, your own need first and your neighbor's need second, is not a disqualification at all? What if it is the very shape of holy things? On the eighth day, after a long week of consecration, Aaron walks to the altar. And the first thing he does is offer a sacrifice for himself.
Take a moment to read Leviticus 9:1-11, 22-24. Read it on Bible Gateway if you'd like.