Aaron must wear it when he ministers. The sound of the bells will be heard when he enters the Holy Place before the LORD and when he comes out, so that he will not die …… Aaron and his sons must wear them whenever they enter the tent of meeting or approach the altar to minister in the Holy Place, so that they will not incur guilt and die. “This is to be a lasting ordinance for Aaron and his descendants’. Exodus 28: 35, 43
Comment
I’m enjoying reading Exodus at the moment. However, being a priest was not a safe place to be. The priests knew that God was just and good, but not safe. In fact they knew him to be dangerous. They were in awe.
We often and rightfully see God as a loving ‘Abba” father and forget the “awe” bit… God is Holy and we are not fit to be in his presence, except through Christ. One day we will all meet Him and there’ll be a review of our lives, and what we do now has implications for us now, then and in the New Earth to come. God is not safe.
He is Holy, loving, forgiving, merciful and just, but not safe. We are new creations. Christ lives in us. We were given our partners as a gift from God; to love, nourish, cherish, protect and respect. How are we doing? Do you take God seriously or is He just an occasional convenience? Give a moment to what God would have you change in your attitude to Him and your relationship with your loved one.
Prayer (as a couple)
Lord, Forgive us for not seeing you as you are. Help us to grow a more complete picture of you and to have appropriate awe and love for you. Lord motivate us to honour you in our relationships. Help me to be loving and kind to ….. Nudge me and strengthen me to make the changes you desire. Become more ‘real’ in my life I pray. Amen.
Prayer (for others)
Lord we lift up ____ and ____ to you. Give them a clearer understanding of who you are. Help them to respond in a way that pleases you and to change accordingly. Become real in their lives we pray. Amen
Final quote
“Safe?” said Mr. Beaver.”Who said anything about safe? ‘Course he isn’t safe. But he’s good. He’s the King, I tell you.” The Chronicles of Narnia – C S Lewis
