jewels, sashes, and tattoos

These must be worn whenever Aaron and his sons enter the Tabernacle or approach the altar in the Holy Place to perform their priestly duties. Then they will not incur guilt and die. This is a permanent law for Aaron and all his descendants after him. (Exodus 28:43 NLT)

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The Lord had set forth some pretty specific things for the priests to do. Even down to what they wore into the tabernacle to make sacrifices. They were to be decked out in a breastplate and sash with jewel stones bearing an engraving with the name of twelve tribes on them. Some jewels on their shoulders and more on the breastplate that were worn on their chest. It was unique, ornate, an purposeful.

I am thankful we do not wear these today. While I'm sure it was beautiful, I have not seen anything like it today. Honestly, it reminds me of a boy scout uniform all bedazzled out.

The fashion wasn't what captured me this morning, it was the purpose for such exact details that caught me.

Each stone bore an engraving. The set of jewels on the shoulders were a reminder to the priests that they were bearing and carrying the needs of the people before the Lord as intercession. The stones on the breastplate were a reminder that a tender heart toward the people was necessary. The tribes were comprised of real people with real needs.

I am reminded to keep a tender heart today. While I don't plan on wearing anything bedazzled, whatever I need to do to remind myself of the people and their needs, is what i should do. Wear my watch on the opposite wrist, set a reminder on my phone, create a piece of artwork to display the tenderness a shepherd needs, or anything else that remind me that it's about people. I mean heck, people have gotten tattoos for less important reminders.

Father,
Thanks for the reminder today. I am grateful we don't have to get dressed up to come into your presence nor do we have to pray through another human. May I stay tender before you and remain sensitive to people who are around me and their needs. Amen.

Created 4 months ago