Once again, there is much in this passage that needs further study in order for me to understand it fully. Yesterday, I read about the different kinds of offerings. Today, chapter eight begins with an account of the consecration of Aaron and his sons. I think that is a very logical progression. Someone has to be in charge. Someone has to be the high priest and set the example for all the others, and that someone was Aaron. Some time is spent on the consecration of Aaron and his sons, and then Aaron offers a sacrifice to God. Notice that time is spent consecrating them, and only after that does Aaron attempt to sacrifice to God.
It seems to me that we have something to learn from this. I know the tendency is there once someone turns his/her life around to jump into ministry. I have seen this before. However, one must spend time with God before sacrificing oneself to the ministry. We need to be prepared for the work that God has for us. So, we need to spend time with God – in His word – in prayer – in fellowship with others. These things shape who we are and mold us into someone who can handle the pressures of ministry. (And, everyone should be a minister in some way.) Does this mean that we have to go to Bible school for six years before we begin to minister? No, we minister along the way, but we should not minister empty. We minister out of what we know and have learned, so we must be learning in order to minister effectively. Lord, help me prepare for ministry in a way that makes me effective and personable to those around me. When people look at me, I want them to see you.
It breaks my heart what happens in chapter 10. Shortly after being consecrated, Aaron’s sons Nadab and Abihu disobey God, and God kills them with fire. Shannon’s seminary advisor, Dr. Adewuya, cautioned one of his classes one time against the belief that God is loving at the expense of God being just. He said, “God is a killer” (concerning the continually disobedient) and went on to talk about how we need to approach God in a much more respectful manner than we do sometimes. Here, we see God’s judgment falling instantaneously on these two men, and I imagine that Aaron was heartbroken as well, but Aaron continued to minister to the people and offer sacrifices as the Lord had commanded him. God, help me to approach you respectfully. I know you are a powerful God, and it amazes me that you love me like you do. I don’t ever want to take your love for granted.
Blessings,
Dee
