Day 28: Sacrifice Required

Scripture Focus: Romans 3

The LORD God made garments of skin for Adam and his wife, and clothed them." -Genesis 3:21, NASB

Imagine the scene in the garden. Prior to the Fall, everything operated in perfect harmony. Formed by the masterful hand of God, creation displayed a beauty unknown to those born since the Fall. All creation danced in a song of praise for the Creator; the animal kingdom knew no fear of man; there existed no concept of pain or death. The earth was full of the knowledge of the Lord as the waters cover the sea. But one act of disobedience changed all that and threw all of creation into a state of corruption and groaning (Romans 8:20-22).

Adam and Eve's disobedience in the garden was not a mere flirtation with sin-it was an act of high treason against the Creator. The holy God, the Provider and Sustainer, the Just and Merciful, the Giver of all good things-spurned. His instructions disregarded. His commandment rebelled against.

The penalty for treason had to be paid. Blood would be shed. Death would now enter the perfect garden. If we stood as observers, what would we have witnessed? Consider the relationship that Adam had developed with the animal kingdom. Before Eve, the animals were Adam's only companions. He not only named and cared for them, but Adam probably spent many hours of enjoyment with the animals under his rule.

Then death came to the animal world. Genesis 3:21 gives a glimpse into God's redemptive plan. The details are hidden, but it is clearly implied that a blood sacrifice was made. Adam and Eve must have stood transfixed by the shocking sight as they witnessed one of their precious lambs, never having shown hostility or aggression, quietly obey the Creator's call.

What were they thinking as the Master laid His tender hand on the willing subject's neck? Were they horrified at their first sight of blood as the lamb's life ebbed away? Did they feel remorse that an innocent creature was bearing their death penalty and providing the necessary covering for their sin? Later, did they relive those moments every morning as they dressed in their garments of skin? Someday we may know the answers. But for now we understand that this sacrifice would be the first foreshadowing of the Lamb who would be slain for the sin of the world. This was the first hint of the ultimate sacrifice that would one day be made at the Cross.

Take Time to Reflect

How does the death of Christ relate to the sinful choices we have made as women and the breach in our relationship with God and others? Have you allowed your heart to grow cold and indifferent toward God's grace? Read Romans 3 and spend some time expressing gratitude for Christ's sacrifice.

True Woman Wyoming Prayer Focus

Ask the Lord to provide the volunteers needed to assist in various areas throughout True Woman Wyoming Conference. We are hoping for some men (that aren't already caring for children in the absence of their mothers) to help in areas of lunch assembly, maintaining beverage/snack tables, cleaning and/or setting up for Sunday church after the conference and praying for the women during some of the conference time. Time commitment would be flexible based on availability of volunteer. If you know of men or teenage youth that may be willing to serve the women in this way, please reply to this email with a name and phone number/email address.