March 23, 2025 - Exodus‬ ‭19‬:‭5‬-‭6

“if you will indeed obey my voice and keep my covenant, you shall be my treasured possession among all peoples, for all the earth is mine; and you shall be to me a kingdom of priests and a holy nation.’ These are the words that you shall speak to the people of Israel.” Exodus 19:5-6 ESV

Lord, you established the tribe of Levi to serve as the priests of the nation of Israel. These priests were the mediators between Israel and you. You didn’t put them in this role because you loved them more than the rest of the tribes but being in this role did make their lives look different. They were responsible to make sure that your standards and requirements were met so that your presence could continue to dwell with Israel. Their role also came with blessings. They got to serve you directly, encounter your presence, and they were provided for by the rest of Israel. Jesus, we are so grateful that you came and died for us and completely changed the way things work. How wonderful that we don’t need a priest to be the mediator, but can each have a personal relationship with you.

As we read this verse, we see that the viewpoint that you picked Israel as your favorite and the rest of us are second class is not accurate. You blessed Israel and drew them close to you, but it wasn’t because you wanted to show they were more loved, but you wanted them to represent you as a holy nation and be the priests between you and the rest of the people on earth. You wanted them to be your lighthouse to the world. Jesus, again we see how your death and resurrection changed things. Now all your followers are to be the holy examples to those who don’t know you. Help us not get so wrapped up in our own world that we miss the true calling of being your lighthouses to the lost. Help us live a holy life that sets us apart, makes us stand out, and shine brightly for you.

In Jesus name, amen.