Exodus 28: 31-43
31 “Make the robe of the ephod entirely of blue cloth, 32 with an opening
for the head in its center. There shall be a woven edge like a collar[c] around
this opening, so that it will not tear. 33 Make pomegranates of blue, purple
and scarlet yarn around the hem of the robe, with gold bells between them. 34
The gold bells and the pomegranates are to alternate around the hem of the
robe. 35 Aaron must wear it when he ministers. The sound of the bells will be
heard when he enters the Holy Place before the Lord and when he comes out, so
that he will not die. 36 “Make a plate of pure gold and engrave on it as on a
seal: holy to the Lord. 37 Fasten a blue cord to it to attach it to the turban;
it is to be on the front of the turban. 38 It will be on Aaron’s forehead, and
he will bear the guilt involved in the sacred gifts the Israelites consecrate,
whatever their gifts may be. It will be on Aaron’s forehead continually so that
they will be acceptable to the Lord.
39 “Weave the tunic of fine linen and make the turban of fine linen. The
sash is to be the work of an embroiderer. 40 Make tunics, sashes and caps for
Aaron’s sons to give them dignity and honor. 41 After you put these clothes on
your brother Aaron and his sons, anoint and ordain them. Consecrate them so
they may serve me as priests. 42 “Make linen undergarments as a covering for
the body, reaching from the waist to the thigh. 43 Aaron and his sons must wear
them whenever they enter the tent of meeting or approach the altar to minister
in the Holy Place, so that they will not incur guilt and die. “This is to be a
lasting ordinance for Aaron and his descendants.
Title: The Priest and his Garments
Message: The priest is anointed by God to minister. He reflects God's holiness, thus requiring him to appear and act with holiness. He must be clothed in a manner God wanted him to and be spared from anything unholy in every aspect of his personality. His presence serves as our reminder of God’s message and a prompt to keep our faith burning. It’s his presence that will encourage us
to confidently come to the Father and claim His grace.
Promise to Claim: The priest is our mediator. We become deserving of God's grace because of this anointed person who goes between us and God. All that we offer to God becomes acceptable because of him.
Command to Obey: Make ourselves pay attention to him as he
ministers. Let us be involved and heed his words as these come from the Father
who anointed him. Let us serve God with fear.
Warning to Heed: Disobedience
yields death.
Application: I will
manifest reverence towards those whom God anointed. I will attentively listen
as they minister and heed their words.
