Leviticus 10:1 Aaron’s sons Nadab and Abihu took their censers, put fire in them and added incense; and they offered unauthorized fire before the Lord, contrary to his command.
My first thought, reading today’s scripture, is: “Why would God punish someone earnestly seeking Him, even if it is in an unauthorized way?” Commentary posits that Aaron’s sons might not be earnestly seeking, that their pride might be prompting them to try to reach God in an unauthorized way to brag about their ability.
Leviticus 10:2 So fire came out from the presence of the Lord and consumed them, and they died before the Lord.
These thoughts lead me back to yesterday’s idea that God knows our hearts and reminds me that I need to be careful. I can be really judgy when I let myself, ascribing motives based on why I think others are doing or not doing something. Today’s scripture reminds me that I am not God, and, therefore, I need to quit judging. God knows my heart. He knows theirs, too.
Leviticus 10:3 Moses then said to Aaron, “This is what the Lord spoke of when he said: “ ‘Among those who approach me I will be proved holy; in the sight of all the people I will be honored.’ ” Aaron remained silent.
Precious Savior, You call me to love and not to judge (Matt 7:1). Thank You that You know my heart and the hearts of others (Ps 44:21). Help me to leave the judging to You and to love others as You love–completely, fiercely, abundantly. Help me, Jesus. Amen.
Leviticus 10:4 Moses summoned Mishael and Elzaphan, sons of Aaron’s uncle Uzziel, and said to them, “Come here; carry your cousins outside the camp, away from the front of the sanctuary.”
Have a blessed day.