The consecration of the priests is given a lot of time here and the full record of this seven-day ritual taking place appears in Leviticus 8, with even more descriptions and explanations. Clearly this was a hugely important event in the history of Israel.

There were many stages to the consecration ritual. The blood was put on the priests’ ears, on their thumbs and on their big toes. They were to hear the word, serve the Lord, and walk in the way as leaders for others to follow. The bathing was necessary for cleansing, and the anointing with oil represented the Holy Spirit’s presence with them as they served.

The blood, water and oil are strong symbols in Scripture. As Christians, we can be cleansed from sin by the shed blood of Christ, immersed in the waters of baptism, and filled with the Holy Spirit. The complex instructions regarding the Tabernacle and priestly worship are no longer needed because everything has been fulfilled by the death and resurrection of Christ.

Let us then, since we are cleansed by the blood, determine to hear the word, serve the Lord, and walk the way so that others may follow and be led to Jesus.

next devotional >>

 

 

NEWBOLD COMMUNITY CHURCH