It is a bit difficult to grasp the idea of a meaningless gift. The best I can come up with is perhaps an engagement ring from someone who is not willing to commit to a relationship.

Israel’s first king, Saul, had been given a mission by God. When he was disobedient in fulfilling the given task, he thought he could justify himself by offering many sacrifices. God sent the prophet Samuel to straighten him out. “Does the LORD delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices as much as in obeying the voice of the LORD? To obey is better than sacrifice” (1 Samuel 15:22).

God was so sick of sacrifices without obedience that in Isaiah 1:13 He says, “Stop bringing meaningless offerings!”

So, what did God want? Another prophet explains, “And what does the LORD require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God” (Micah 6:8).

Jump ahead to the New Testament. When Jesus was criticized by religious leaders for hanging around “tax collectors and sinners,” He told them, “Go and learn what this means: ‘I desire mercy, not sacrifice’” (Matthew 9:13).

The Hebrew word for mercy can also be interpreted as “love.” To show mercy, means to have the right conduct toward one another or loyalty to God or both. It reminds me of Jesus’ summary of the greatest commandments, love God and love people. That’s the obedience God desires.

May our offerings come before Him like a fragrant incense when we are committed to and live to honor Him.