Numbers 8:16 They are the Israelites who are to be given wholly to me. I have taken them as my own….
This morning I came to the scriptures feeling weary and beat down. This is a tough time of year for me. I’m tired—personally and professionally, and all my insecurities float to the surface. Everything feels personal. But as I was reading about the Levites in Numbers 8, my precious Savior reminded me of who I am. I am a deeply loved child of God. He has called me by name. He has a purpose for my life. I’m clinging to His promises because I know my feelings lie.
Numbers 8:18 And I have taken the Levites in place of all the firstborns in Egypt, I set them apart for myself.
Perhaps it is ironic that today is Ash Wednesday, the first day of Lent, a time of “saying ‘no’ to sinful habits in the Spirit’s power.” Believing the lies of this world, collapsing under the weight of exhaustion, grief, bitterness, anger, that is a sinful habit, is it not? So if I make a concerted effort this Lenten season to cling to God’s truth about who I am and deny all the lies that the world and my weary mind try to claim about me, I am absolutely denying self and drawing closer to my Savior, which is the purpose of this season. Thank You, Jesus.
Numbers 8:19 From among all the Israelites, I have given the Levites as gifts to Aaron and his sons to do the work of the tent meeting on behalf of the Israelites….
Lord, Thank You for this day, for this scripture, for showing up so powerfully this morning and reminding me of who I am in You. I am a deeply, fiercely, completely loved child of God. You created me for a purpose. You ground me in truth and love and grace. You give me hope. Draw me closer during this season. Help me to die to self so I can live only for You. Amen.
Numbers 8:20 Moses, Aaron and the whole Israelite community did with the Levites just as the LORD commanded Moses.
Have a blessed day.
My faith, my life, my teaching–it's all a work in progress.