In stark contrast, the sacrifice of Manoah is made in thanksgiving for the gift of his son. A slaughtered sheep or goat, while unappealing to our modern senses, carried a profound meaning in ancient times. Today, we understand that the sacrifices in the Old Testament foreshadowed the redemptive gift of Christ. His ultimate sacrifice supersedes all others, bringing about the salvation of the world.

As we continue making our small sacrifices in this season of Lent, may we offer them with humility and gratitude for all that God has done for us.