God become flesh in order to fulfill the sacrificial system. He came to provide a true sacrifice, one that would completely atone for human sin. Jesus, the God-man, came in order to show what it means to have a “open ear” to the commandments of God. Jesus obeyed perfectly - His merits completely righteous and His righteousness a provision for sinners to stand before their holy God so that “in him we might become the righteousness of God” (2 Cor. 5:21).

Psalm 40 records this conversation for our benefit. In it, we see the sacrificial system as an example of God’s grand plan to make what was designed to point to a Rescuer, intentionally declared obsolete because it would be replaced by something far better and completely permanent - God in flesh, Jesus, with the Word of God both in His ear and on His heart!

Even when God’s people repeatedly and predictably cower in fear, reject His Word and choose to live in rebellion and lack of faith, God will NOT EVER abandon them. God keeps His promises! If He says I will never leave you or forsake you, He will never leave us or forsake us. Our God keeps His covenants forever!

Often times God leads His people into places, situations and scenarios that according to human reason, are impossible situations without a rational way of escape. BUT GOD…

This biblical narrative in Genesis sets the tone for every other salvation account in the Bible. It’s showcasing the reality that God saves people by His own doing and by His mercy and grace keeps people from what they rightfully deserve. It’s a foundational “BUT GOD”.

As we wrap up our final week in Philippians, we receive an exhortation from the Apostle Paul as he encourages us to hold fast, consistently remember and receive the gospel of Jesus Christ. By being recipients of gospel generosity through the finished work of Jesus, we become a gracious and generous people who love, serve, care and give faithfully to gospel ministry for the building of the Kingdom of God in our local community.