Day 25

Holy to the Lord

Read: Exodus 26-28

This passage completes instructions for building the tabernacle and describes the garments to be made for the priests. In doing so, it introduces one of the key concepts of Scripture, that of holiness. These are to be “holy garments” (28:2) and the plate of pure gold, which is to be fastened to Aaron’s forehead, is to have on it the engraving, “Holy to the LORD” (28:36).

Holiness means “separated unto.” Anything holy is to be totally dedicated to the service of God. Being separated to God includes being separated from sinful purposes. As Aaron’s garments were to be holy, so we are called to be holy, that is, so separated unto God that we continually separate ourselves from sin.

The Urim and the Thummim (28:30) are of special interest. They were apparently two objects, something like dice, which were used in the casting of lots to determine the will of God. They were kept in a receptacle in the breastplate of the high priest and were only used to determine God’s will for matters that dealt with the national affairs of God’s people. It was fitting then that they were kept in the breastplate which was adorned with 12 precious stones representing the 12 tribes. We can be thankful that through Scripture and the Holy Spirit we can determine the will of God in a much more mature way.

PRAYER
Father, help us to live holy lives of seeking to know your will and, led by your Spirit, to do your will. For Jesus’ sake. Amen.