There is a strange power in the very name of blood, and the sight of it always affects us. A kind heart cannot bear to see a sparrow bleed. Unless hardened by habit, we turn away in horror when an animal is slaughtered. And human blood? That is a consecrated thing. To shed it in anger is murder. To squander it in war is a dreadful crime.

Why does blood carry such solemnity? I believe it's because blood is life, and to pour it out is the sign of death.

But when we rise to contemplate the blood of the Son of God, our awe is yet more increased. We shudder when we think of the guilt of sin and the terrible penalty which the Sin-bearer endured. Blood is always precious. But when it streams from Immanuel's side? Priceless.

The blood of Jesus seals the covenant of grace and makes it forever sure. In ancient times, covenants were made through sacrifice—and the everlasting covenant was ratified in the same manner. Oh, the delight of being saved on the sure foundation of divine engagements which cannot be dishonored! Salvation by the works of the law is a frail and broken vessel whose shipwreck is sure; but the covenant vessel fears no storms, for the blood ensures the whole.

The blood of Jesus made his testament valid. You see, wills have no power until the one who made them dies. In this light, even the soldier's spear becomes a blessed aid to faith, since it proved our Lord to be really dead. Doubts on that matter? There can be none. And so we may boldly appropriate the legacies which he has left for his people. Happy are those who see their title to heavenly blessings assured to them by a dying Savior!

But does this blood have no voice to us? Does it not bid us sanctify ourselves unto him by whom we have been redeemed? Does it not call us to newness of life and incite us to entire consecration to the Lord?

O that the power of the blood might be known and felt in us tonight!