Feb. 10, 2021
This passage details how the guilt offering is presented by the priests because it is most holy. It then defines the peace offering as an offering for thanksgiving, a vow offering, or a freewill offering to the Lord.
Moses consecrates Aaron and his sons to serve as priests as the Lord commanded Moses. The narrative is structured into seven parts divided by the phrase, “as the Lord commanded.” By repeating this seven times, the author is symbolizing that the ordination of Aaron and his sons is complete.
After their ordination, Aaron and his sons preside over the first tabernacle service. The glory of the Lord miraculously manifests as the fire that consumes their offering. The Lord fulfills the promise that he made in Exodus 29:43-46 as he dwells in the midst of his people.
“And the King will answer them, ‘Truly, I say to you, as you did it to one of the least of these my brothers, you did it to me.’” - Matthew 25:40
This passage discusses the final judgment when Jesus separates people as a shepherd separates sheep from goats. Those who are sheep inherit the kingdom of heaven because they served the “least of these.” The goats are likewise cast into eternal punishment, as their rejection of the “least of these” is a rejection of Jesus and his kingdom.
In the context of this parable, the “least of these” refers to Jesus’ brothers and sisters, a common reference for his disciples and all believers. So those who receive the kingdom of heaven and show compassion for those in need have received Jesus himself. Those who show no evidence of compassion for those in need have rejected him and his message.
Make It Personal
- Have you considered the peace and freedom that Jesus’ ultimate sacrifice on the cross brought us? What can you do with that realization today?
- Pray this prayer: Father God, help me see “the least of these” in my path today and see that I am serving you in serving them. Amen.