Lessons from Leviticus

I just finished reading the book of Leviticus. Here are some take aways:
1. The Old Testament priests were like present day slaughter house operators. They were constantly required to facilitate the sacrificial offerings that were brought to the tent of meeting.
2. The fire on the altar had to be tended and kept from going out.
3. You did not approach God empty handed.
4. Aarons' sons tried to manufacture their own fire as a substitute for the fire of God. A very poor decision that cost them dearly. God took them out. You just don't mess around with the sacred things.
5. There is a distinction between the consequences of intentional and unintentional sins.
6. Without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness of sins.
7. God keeps his covenant.
8. Sabbath rest was meant to be practiced.
9. There are special times and seasons when the whole nation assembled as a sacred assembly before God.
10. Jubilee! Everything is returned to it's owner. God had a system in place to remind the entire nation that everything belonged ultimately to God.
I cannot imagine trying to live under the Old Covenant. I am grateful that every thing we have is wrapped up in Jesus. He is the new and living way!