Unlike those other chapters in the Bible, this is a good one.
(sorry, bad joke)
Moses is relaying more instructions from the Lord here, only this chapter is pretty much about the preparation of and execution of consecration day, where they start ministering in the tabernacle. The priestly garments are put on Aaron and his sons. Three rams are killed, with their organs, blood and certain gooey body parts dealt with in specific ways. The blood of each ram was sprinkled or poured on specific things, the last of which was the right ear (maybe signifying the right as being sensitive to hearing God), the right hands and right feet -- thumbs and big toes, specifically (perhaps symoblizing a life of service to other people on God's behalf).
The dedication to be a minister is a pretty big deal. I'm reminded of how I should respect not just religious leaders, but those others in public service that help on a regular basis (police, fire, teachers, janitors, and even politicians).
The regular sacrifice of two one-year-old lambs each day (morning and twilight). This went on for a very long time. Even in times of severe apostasy in the land of Israel, they kept this practice up.
I like the conclusion of this consecration. God declares:
"Then I will dwell among the Israelites and be their God. They will know that I am the Lord their God, who brought them out of Egypt so that I might dwell among them. I am the Lord their God."
That is cool.
Posted by Doug Van Pelt at May 15, 2008 08:49 AM