On the eighth day after the inauguration, the priests offered the very first atonement sacrifices (1). By the LORD’s command, they offered the sacrifices first for themselves (7-14), and then for the people (15-21).

The priestly duty is to make atonement sacrifices for the people of the LORD. But the LORD commanded the priests, “make atonement for yourself” (7). The LORD commanded them to make atonement for themselves before making atonement for the people. What does this mean to us? We, too, are sinners. We must first repent before making intercessory prayers, before delivering messages or before teaching others.

After completing the first atonement sacrifices for the people, Aaron blessed the LORD’s people by lifting his hands (22,23a). Then the glory of the LORD appeared to all the people. “Fire came out from the presence of the LORD and consumed the burnt offering and the fat portions on the altar. And when all the people saw it, they shouted for joy and fell facedown” (23b,24). The LORD accepted the first atonement sacrifices. The people worshipped the LORD in his presence! When we repent first and then serve others, we shall see the glory of the LORD.
Application: Father, help me always repent of my sin first and then serve your people.
One Word: Make atonement for yourself first!