Monday, February 7, 2011

numbers 8-10

Before I begin my ramblings for today, I am remembering something from yesterday's reading, the Blessing of Aaron.  It is found at the end of Numbers 6.  It is one of the most famous of all of the blessings found in the Bible.  It reads, "The Lord Bless you and keep you; the Lord make his face to shine upon you and be gracious unto you; the Lord turn his face toward you and give you his peace."  It is a great blessing.....maybe I will remember to use it on you.

Numbers 8 begins with some instructions to Moses and to Aaron about the lampstands in the tabernacle.  They are intended to provide light to the Priests while they do their work.  They are symbols of God's presence.  In the Book of Revelation there is a reference to the 7 churches who are called to be lamp stands as well; symbols and reflections of God's presence in a pagan world.  We, too, are called to be such a lamp stand; giving light to the world in the darkness of sin and despair that often prevail in this world.  Failing to project that light is to fail to do that which God has called us to.

God again reminds Israel that he took the firstborn of Egypt when Israel was delivered from slavery on the night when the Angel of Death Passed over Israel but visited every Egyptian household.  He now stakes his claim to the Levites as a substitute for the first born of Israel.  These are to be God's used in the service of God.  Some would say, "what a job!"  Begin work at age 25 and retire at 50....cool!!!  This was probably instituted because the Levites were assigned the arduous task of disassembling, carrying and reassembling the tabernacle each time that Israel moved as God led them across the wilderness on their way to the Promised land.  Also, note that Levites above the age of 50 were to assist the younger men.  Perhaps serving as mentors and such.

The one note that I would make today out of Chapter 9 was the notation that alien and Israelite were to be treated the same by rule and regulation.  This will be true on the day of judgment as well.  The standard will be the same for all.....every knee shall bow and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord of All.  How grateful we should be that we have this time to practice before we meet our Savior in heaven.

And now: May the Lord Bless you and keep you;
May the Lord make his face to shine upon you and be gracious unto you;
May the Lord turn his face unto you and give you peace.

Have a great God-filled week.

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