If the entire Israelite community sins by violating one of the Lord’s commands, but the people don’t realize it, they are still guilty. When they become aware of their sin, the people must bring a young bull as offering for their sin and present it before the Tabernacle. Leviticus 4: 13-14

“Oops. I’m so sorry! I didn’t realize you were there. Are you ok?”

This is something you might hear someone say after they accidentally hit you with a door.

And even though they didn’t mean to hurt you, you still feel the pain they caused.

But you forgive them and brush it off because…it was an accident!

In the same way (sort of), God forgave the Israelites for their “accidents.”

He knew they would sin even when they weren’t trying to.

That’s why He made provisions for them to be forgiven through sacrifices.

He knew they were trying to live according to the Law as best as they could, but that they would always fall short.

He knew that through all of time, human beings would always fall short despite our best efforts.

That’s why He sent His Son Jesus to be the ultimate sacrifice for our sins.

I think God really just wants us to look to Him for guidance, repent when we’ve missed the mark, and grow in love for Him and for others.

So the next time you realize you’ve made a mistake, don’t beat yourself up.

Remember that Jesus already covered you with the sacrifice of His life and that God is always ready to forgive you, grant you wisdom, and help you grow.

He’s only a prayer away.

And just think: the more you stick with God, the fewer “accidents” you’ll have in life.

Be blessed,

Alexia