As I read through Genesis, I am struck by a common theme. A theme that represents a habit of grateful respect. A theme that is modeled by our forefathers for us to practice today.
I'd like to focus on the example of 2 men in Genesis: Noah & Abraham.
In Genesis 8, Noah and his family had just endured months of waiting for the flood waters to recede, allowing them to be back on solid ground. Following the end of the flood, the freedom of his family, and the release of the animals, Noah built an altar to the Lord and sacrificed clean animals as burnt offerings. Scripture says "the Lord smelled the pleasing aroma" and promised never to curse the ground again, despite the future evilness of man. (vs. 21-22).
photo credit to Ken Watson
In chapter 12, Abram had just encountered the majesty and faithfulness of His God after receiving a promise and blessing for he and his offspring. In awe, Abram pitched a tent in the hills and "built an altar to the Lord and called on the name of the Lord" (8-9).
There are 2 important parts to this habit of worship. First of all, the Lord is pleased with sacrifice. This is evident from the Old Covenant laws and the rich significance of blood throughout the Old Testament. I believe this is one of the main reasons that atonement for mankind was only accomplished through the sacrifice of the spotless Lamb of God. An atonement that was made once for all. Second, the Lord is pleased when we remember. How often do we ask for God's help, or absent-mindedly receive God's blessings yet forget to return with gratefulness? Another way Israelites remembered God's faithfulness was by setting up stones of remembrance or "Ebenezers". When God's people pause to remember His greatness, future obstacles are less ominous and the heart of God is pleased.
As children of God let's make a habit of being a pleasing aroma. Sacrifice and remember.
