Can you imagine being able to take care of, to work and serve in the work of the tent of meeting? The 3 clans of Levi, the Kohathites, the Gershonites, the Merarites, 30 to 50 years of age will serve God in this special way. When the camp is to move, Aaron and his sons are to go in and take down the shielding curtain and put it over the ark of the covenant law, they are to cover the curtain with a durable leather, spread a cloth of solid blue over that and put the poles in place…After Aaron and his sons have finished covering the holy furnishings and all the holy articles, and when the camp is ready to move, only then are the Kohathites to come and do the carrying. But they must not touch the holy things or they will die. Numbers 4:5-15. The Gershonites are to carry the curtains of the tabernacle, its covering and its outer durable leather, the curtains for the entrance to the tent of meeting and the curtains of the courtyard v. 25-28. The Merarites are to carry the frames, crossbars, posts and bases, tent pegs, ropes and all equipment and everything related to their use v. 29-33.

In the notes below: They were expected to carry out their duties as described here in every detail. In fact, failure to do so would mean death (4:20: But the Kohathites must not go to look at the holy things, even for a moment, or they will die). This contrasted greatly from the religious practices of the Egyptians who could purchase amulets and potions. Their idols could be handled. The God of the Hebrews was not to be handled or reduced to common elements. He is greater than anything in his creation. Worshiping our Holy God must not be taken lightly.

There is a distinction and God accounts for everything. This morning reading Jesus Calling by Sarah Young: In your unfailing love you will lead the people you have redeemed. In your strength you will guide them to your holy dwelling. Exodus 15:13.

Have you ever thought about our destination? Where all of this…our lives…is leading? The Lord is my light and my salvation – whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life – of whom shall I be afraid? Psalm 27:1. Then Jesus cried out, “Whoever believes in me does not believe in me only, but in the one who sent me. The one who looks at me is seeing the one who sent me. I have come into the world as a light, so that no one who believes in me should stay in darkness.” John 12:44-46.

What is most holy? The Lord God Almighty. He is the One who lights the way so we don’t stumble in the darkness. He gave direction to the sons of Levi so they could serve Him with the proper care of the most Holy things. He doesn’t leave us without direction. He is our faithful guide then and now. Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: Love your neighbor as yourself. All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments. Matthew 22:37-40. God’s love is our guide and hope. His love lights the way to life lived in fullness with Him.

In the time before Jesus came, only a very select few could look upon what was holy. Jesus, the Word of God, Creator of all that is, directed the sons of Levi in the care of the most holy things that there would be reverence and respect for what is holy. In exactly the right time, He came to this Earth to show people living then what being with God was like. Can you imagine? Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage; rather, he made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to death – even death on a cross! Therefore God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. Philippians 2:6-11.

The care of the Most Holy. Therefore, my dear friends, as you have always obeyed – not only in my presence, but now much more in my absence – continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you to will and to act in order to fulfill his good purpose. Philippians 2:12-13.

How does God work in us? But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you. Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid. John 14:26-27. Jesus didn’t leave them or us without instruction and guidance because He has the care of all things. His love that is so great and beautiful lights the way for us. Where are we going? To be with Him…in His holy dwelling…loved and being able to love.