Today’s Reading: Exodus 25; Exodus 26; Exodus 27; Acts 6
Scripture: Exodus 27:20-21
20 "Command the Israelites to bring you clear oil of pressed olives for the light so that the lamps may be kept burning. 21 In the Tent of Meeting, outside the curtain that is in front of the Testimony, Aaron and his sons are to keep the lamps burning before the LORD from evening till morning. This is to be a lasting ordinance among the Israelites for the generations to come."
Observation: Perpetual flame -- that is what is called for -- at least during the dark of night "from evening to morning." As I read this, I thought of the work required to make this happen. Notice the responsibility is shared. The leaders are to "command the Israelites" to bring the oil. Obviously, there is the responsibility of the priests and Levites to light the lamp, fill it with the oil, and monitor it to make sure it has adequate wicking, etc. This is an ongoing responsibility that was clearly visible to all. And this was just one of many tasks that were required to maintain the worship of God in the tabernacle of Moses.
Application: The responsibility for maintaining worship is a shared responsibility. I tried to think of a corresponding task to the lamp lighting referenced above. I couldn't really think of one that had the same visibility, and therefore, accountability, and the same need for participation from leaders, servants, and the people. Can you? (I think this is especially true of a mobile church.) However, the ongoing worship of God is the joint responsibility of all who are a part of any body of believers. No one group can make it happen. And any group that falls down on the job can prevent it from happening successfully.
Prayer: Lord, help our fellowship to fully function in all the areas that are necessary to keep the flame of passion for You burning. Give us an understanding of our various roles and responsibilities and the will to fulfill them well.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
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