Leviticus opens today, the book where many reading plans slow down, and it deserves a better reputation: it is the manual for living close to a holy God, and its first word to Israel is an invitation: when anyone brings an offering.

In Mark, four friends tear open a roof to lower a paralyzed man to Jesus. Both books today are about getting close to God, and the lengths love goes to do it.

Leviticus and the roof-diggers are telling one story: access to God is the treasure, and love spares no effort for it. The offerings gave Israel a way to draw near, hands on the sacrifice, aroma rising, a shared meal with God. The four friends wanted their man near Jesus badly enough to destroy a roof.

Jesus rewarded that determined, tile-ripping faith with more than they asked, forgiveness first, then legs. So bring that energy to your own approach. Bring the offering of yourself, freely. Carry your paralyzed friend, whoever that is, whatever it takes. The One inside the house is willing. He has said so with His hand out.