Feb 8 (Daily reading: Exodus 28-29, NASB) Today we see a description of the high priest’s holy garments. We will use some of them to symbolize our own priestly role. “He made us into a kingdom, priests to His God and Father” (Rev. 1:6). We begin with the breastplate of judgment, or “breastpiece for making decisions” (28:15, NIV). “And you shall put in the breastpiece of judgment the Urim and the Thummim, and they shall be over Aaron’s heart when he goes in before the LORD” (28:30). These were probably stones that were used to know God’s will and guidance. As we serve as priests, as intercessors, as God’s representatives, we do not give our own advice, but we speak from God’s word. Our own hearts are covered by “the breastplate of righteousness” (Eph. 6:14), the “righteousness which comes through Jesus Christ” (Phil. 1:11).
An ephod was worn to cover the robe, with two shoulder pouches which contained two stones. On these stones were engraved the names of the twelve sons of Israel. “Aaron shall carry their names before the LORD on his two shoulders” (28:12). We serve as priests when we bring to the Lord the names of our brothers and sisters who need His blessing.
Finally, on the front of Aaron’s turban, there was attached a plate on which was engraved, “Holy to the LORD” (28:36). “It shall always be on his forehead, so that (the offerings) may be accepted before the LORD” (28:38). Because Christ is our righteousness, we are holy in God’s sight. He hears our prayers of intercession and He receives our offerings. “Like the Holy One who called you, be holy yourselves also in all your behavior; because it is written: “YOU SHALL BE HOLY, FOR I AM HOLY” (1 Pet. 1:15-16).
“Character is what a man is in the dark” (Dwight L. Moody).
– Al Gary
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