Reflections on the Book of Hebrews

OUTSIDE THE CAMP

(Hebrews 13:12-13)

In the thirteenth chapter of Hebrews, we see an amazing contrast. We see two fires described. One is on the altar before the temple. Here is such a beautiful scene…priest in spotless clothes…the altar where atonement takes place. The best parts and fat of sacrifice are burned there. It smells like a cookout. It reminds you of heaven; God is glorified, prayers are offered and access is given.

But there is another fire outside the camp. Here, the hides, hooves, horns, entrails and the bones are burned. It stinks! Those who tend this fire are unclean. It is dirty and there is no celebration. It reminds us of sin.

These fires remind us of the work of God. God does receive prayers, songs and is the object of our worship. But God also must do the dirty job of dealing with sin. On the Mount of Transfiguration, we see the glory of God. But outside of the gate, on a nasty hill, we see the love and salvation of God as He gives His only Son to a cross.

If we are going to have fellowship with Christ here and now, we must realize that we must do more than worship. We will find Him outside the camp, where sinners are.

Oh, Lord, how excellent is your name. I love to worship you. In worship, everything is so right and beautiful. Please forgive me for avoiding your presence outside of the camp. Give me the wisdom to find you in your work. Give me the courage to face the abuse. And give me the opportunity to be in fellowship with you outside the camp.

 In the name of Your Son, who came to us. Amen.

Paul Shero

San Angelo, Texas