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The vessels found in the Holy and Holy of Holies would seem to represent all of the most important divine values. Why then were we also commanded to build a large altar in the Temple courtyard, with a perpetual fire burning for the sacrifices? To show the importance of dedication and self-sacrifice.
No beautiful, lofty values can endure without a willingness to sacrifice for them. One cannot master Torah without the willingness to sacrifice one’s free time to study diligently. One cannot build an enduring marriage without mutual devotion and the willingness to concede and compromise. One cannot succeed at work without dedication and the willingness to put in extra time when necessary. A scientist will not succeed in discovering the secrets of nature without dedication and persistence in his or her research. Above all, the Jewish people cannot survive without soldiers willing to sacrifice themselves for the Land and the people. Therefore, the holiness of the outer altar (which derives from the Holy of Holies and the covenant between God and His people) can be said to extend everywhere Israeli soldiers stand guard to defend their Land and their people.
When we are deserving, this dedication and self-sacrifice can be expressed in multiple ways: when we tithe to support Torah scholars and the poor; when we are prepared to stand by family and friends who need help at any time of day or night; when we diligently study Torah even when we are tired; and when we undergo exhausting training exercises and wearying guard duty in the Israeli army.
Sometimes though, periods are so difficult that if we want to retain our connection to eternal values, we must be prepared to give up our very lives. Without an altar, there cannot be a Temple, nor can any of the sacred values survive. As the world progresses, there will be less need for people to sacrifice their lives for their nation and their eternal values. This may be what the Sages mean when they say that in the future all sacrifices will be discontinued, except for the thanksgiving offering (which expresses closeness to God in a heartwarming and joyful way).
