The Hebrew word for our Book of Leviticus is wayyigra', literally meaning "and the Lord called." The book lays down the laws for worship, ceremony, and holiness that were given to Israel in the year they spent at Mount Sinai (NIV Study Bible 145). The Levitical laws included the instructions for the sacrifices. Although we may consider it a New Testament concept, the Israelites were called to sacrifice their pride, as well as their aniamls. Leviticus 19:18, "Do not seek revenge or bear a grudge against one of your people, but love your neighbor as yourself: I am the Lord," could be paraphrased, "Sacrifice your pride. Put to death whatever grudge or anger you hold against another. Love others because it is what I do, and what I desire for you to do."

As much as Old Testament law is now covered by grace, "Love your neighbor as yourself" continues in its pure form throughout the New Testament. It expresses the character of God, Who loves the unlovable. Jesus said it (Matt. 22:39, Mark 12:31, Luke 10:27), Paul said it (Romans 13:9, Gal. 5:14), and James said it (James 2:8). 

Anger and vengeance will break the back of the one who carries it. Jesus' "yoke is easy and His burden is light." Jesus said,"Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: Love your neighbor as yourself. All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments" (Matthew 22:37-40).

Jesus, my Lord and Savior, You forgave all my sins and tresspasses. Help me to nail my pride to the cross, and to never hold a grudge or plot revenge against my neighbor who is made in Your image. Thank You for the freedom that comes with forgiveness. Amen.