[330 words]
We tend to think that books like the Old Testament book of Leviticus are not relevant for us today. But we need to remember Paul’s words in Romans 15:4, “For whatever things were written before were written for our learning, that we through the patience and comfort of the Scriptures might have hope.” We can learn much from looking at the Old Testament.
The book of Leviticus (among others things) concerns the Levites, the priestly tribe. This book gives information regarding sacrifices, the priesthood, purification, and festivals of the Mosaic system. And Christians, being the priests of the New Testament (1 Peter 2:9), can certainly glean some important general principles of how we are to conduct ourselves in the kingdom of God (the church). One such example would be in Leviticus 8:24 when the priests were consecrated into service for the Lord. The text reads, “Then he brought Aaron’s sons. And Moses put some of the blood on the tips of their right ears, on the thumbs of their right hands, and on the big toes of their right feet. And Moses sprinkled the blood all around on the altar.” This practice, even though not to be literally followed today, should still hold great symbolic meaning for us.
It is obvious that the ear represented hearing, the hands represented service, and the feet represented a walk of life. They were to listen to God’s instructions, do God’s will, and live the lifestyle that God desired. It is no different for us today as priests of God. We need to read our Bibles, perform acts of service in God’s name, and live pure and influential lives in the world.
It all boils down to our relationship with God. We need to remember that we are priests of God and priests are meant for service. So let us dedicate our ears, hands, and feet to Him. Let us always learn from God, labor for God, and live with God.
Edd Sterchi
Broadway church of Christ
Campbellsville, KY