Leviticus 24 -- Holy, Holy, Holy

The holy oil used for lighting the inside of the Tabernacle is discussed at length, especially the fact that the people never saw the light it produced.  My commentary said, “The lamp wasn’t there for the people to see but for God to see and for the priest to use as he carried on his ministry.  What happened in the presence of God was far more important than what happened elsewhere in the camp!  Sad to say, many a local church has had its light go out before both God and the world because of the unfaithfulness of the members.  They failed to pray, give, and allow the Holy Spirit to use them.  If the light is to be kept burning, somebody has to provide the oil.”

The shewbread remained on the table for a week before being eaten by the priests.  My commentary said, “From the priest’s viewpoint, the loaves reminded him that his ministry was for real people … the priests could easily get out of touch with the people they were representing before God.  Oil from the people fed the lamp … and the bread they ate … came from flour given by the people … All of this should have made the priests more appreciative of the tribes and more anxious to serve them in the best way.”

One final discussion involved a blasphemy by a half-Jewish man who had spoken against the Lord.  Just as the oil and bread were holy, so is God’s name.  I read, “Our God is a holy God and we must honor His name … the Lord doesn’t execute blasphemers today, but there is coming a day of judgment when the secrets of all hearts will be revealed and then God will render to every man according to his deeds.”

Father, help me each day to respect Your holiness and to be a part of what You are doing.  Don’t let the things of this world pull me away from You!

Your Brother In Christ,

Gary Ford