Wednesday, October 2, 2013

A Life Of Faith And Worship

By Angel Dudley


Faith and worship are linked by the fact that both are ways of remaining attached to God. It is when one worships that he sends his supplications to God and receives blessings in return. Changes in the society have lead to mutation of the terms and practices as they were done in the Old Testament. These are the foundations of any Christian belief. They form the basis of prayer sessions.

The Old Testament is the origin of this practice which is closely linked to sacrifice. The belief in a supreme God calls the faithful to make sacrifices for various reasons. It is the priests who lead in these occasions because of their privileged place in the society. Sacrifices came in three forms and were offered on occasions to appease God.

Priests would burn the entire sacrifice at the altar to appease God. The direction of the smoke indicated whether God was pleased with the offering or not. Smoke needed to rise to the skies to signify acceptance. What was laid on the altar was the best produce from the farm or flock. The main component was meat, but drinks, fruits, cereals and tithe would be added.

Each sacrifice indicated how people related with God. Some were demanded while others were rituals. The Deity demanded the best produce especially after harvest as an indication that He is the source of all good. People offered without hesitation because they recognized God as the source of all good. Everything would be consumed by fire at the altar. Not even the priests were allowed to taste.

Sin is the other reason why individuals or the community was required to make sacrifices. This is different from the first offering because some of it was left aside for the priest. Priests were representing God on earth and could therefore claim a share. This was a cleansing ritual that would shield the community from evil. An individual who made the sacrifice would be accepted back.

Offerings made for peace carried with them a number of components. They were offered in thanks giving, as a fulfillment to a vow or as private devotion. There was no obligation as to what a person could offer in this case. The guiding principle was that the lamb being offered should be without blemish. Because of the type of offering, people were welcome to share.

In modern society, worship has taken different forms though the basis or philosophy is still the same. Sacrifices come in the form of cash, commodities or donations. Worshipers are required to regularly offer prayers or fast to gain absolution of sin or for thanks giving. These are indications that one believes in a God who is able to fulfill his promises to his people.

Faith and worship are exemplified in living exemplary lives in obedience to what God commands. They are enriched by acts of charity as well as being generous to other people. Such acts compare to the smoke that rises up during sacrifice. The cost of sacrifice or fasting is considered as surrender to the Almighty God.




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