BEHOLD THE LAMB!

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And looking at Jesus as He walked, he said, "Behold the lamb of God" (John 1:36) In the days of the temple, Jerusalem bustled as hundreds of thousands of worshipers poured into the city to purchase Passover lambs. God's instructions were spe-
cific __the animals had to be without blemish (Deut. 17:1). So a few days prior to Passover, lambs were herded into the city for Levites to examine for defects or disease. The priests separated the spotless lambs from the unsuitable ones so that the Lord's commandment could be honored.

At the Temple Mount, each family patriarch discussed with a priest how many would share his Passover table. The Levite priest then surveyed the flock to find one young sheep suitable for each man's need. When he had found the right one, he would point and proclaim, "Behold the lamb!"

In the fullness of time, God sent His own spotless Lamb, and a Levite named John the Baptist made a wondrous proclamation not for one man's family, but for all mankind. He saw Jesus coming toward him and said, "Behold! The Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world!" (John 1:29).

This remarkable portrait of salvation, as Israel passed over from bondage to redemption, is made more meaningful through the sacrifice of the Lamb of God, Jesus the Messiah. A Lamb without blemish has been chosen for you.

Behold the Lamb! __Kevin Williams