The Willing Scapegoat

As we approach the Day of Atonement, we’re reminded of the beautiful picture of salvation this season brings. Two identical goats were brought before the great High Priest. One was slain, and its blood sprinkled on the Mercy Seat to pay for sin. The second goat was called the Scapegoat. Over him was pronounced and transferred all the sins of the nation. Then it was led away into a “land uninhabited.” The two goats taught one truth… When Messiah comes to pay for sin by His blood, He will also remove it forever. But - He will be vilified for it until He returns. Think of it:

·         Jesus: He came into the world, not to condemn it, but to save it. He was holy, harmless, and a Friend of sinners, but He was “despised and rejected” of men.

·         Jesus: His name means “Salvation.” Yet His name is used to curse, and He is the song of the drunkard and the mocker.

·         Jesus: Every disaster on earth is called an ‘Act of God,’ yet the reality is, “Every good and perfect gift is from Above and comes down from the Father of Lights” who never changes. He is blamed for every evil but never thanked for the good.

·         Jesus: He was mocked with a crown of thorns as if being king of sin, yet He is the King of Righteousness.

However, the Day of Atonement also reminds us that one day the Scapegoat will return in glory. He will forever be vindicated. How we long for that Day! There is no love like His, no Savior so patient and good, no one more worthy of our allegiance, service, and praise! We all want Christ to return, but may our chief reason be so that He will be honored and glorified forever.

(Devotional by Lisa Cataford)