Today’s reading almost feels like the dawn of a new era for Israel! Months of instruction and prep have gone into this moment. The Tabernacle, its furnishings, and instruments are built. The priestly garments are made. Instructions on offering all the sacrifices to the LORD are given. Today, Israel’s priesthood begins its work! Israel’s unique identity comes alive among the nations!
As I thought about this unique identity, the following stood out in the reading.
He put the official tunic on Aaron and tied the sash around his waist. He dressed him in the robe, placed the ephod on him, and attached the ephod securely with its decorative sash. Then Moses placed the chestpiece on Aaron and put the Urim and the Thummim inside it. He placed the turban on Aaron’s head and attached the gold medallion—the badge of holiness—to the front of the turban, just as the LORD had commanded him. (Leviticus 8:7–9, NLT)
Aaron has some new clothes! These are not just any clothes; they have an identity! The design, fit, and look of these garments came from God. They have a “God identity”! Aaron and his sons are now clothed with this identity! This reminds me of something incredible in Isaiah 61:10…
I am overwhelmed with joy in the LORD my God! For he has dressed me with the clothing of salvation and draped me in a robe of righteousness. I am like a bridegroom dressed for his wedding or a bride with her jewels. (Isaiah 61:10, NLT)
Now those are garments! Where do we get these clothes? We get them through Jesus!
For our sake he made him to be sin who knew no sin, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God. (2 Corinthians 5:21, ESV)
As believers, we have a new identity, just like Israel! We have been clothed with Jesus’ righteousness, our new identity before God! You’ve got some new clothes, and they look good on you! No! You no longer wear the garments of sin, shame, guilt, and fear. Gone is the identity crisis…I am His, and He is mine! That is who we are! Talk about being dressed for success! Talk about a perfect fit! Jesus, He is just who we need… let’s wear these garments with overwhelming joy!
Today’s reading: Leviticus 8-10:20 | Tomorrow’s reading: Leviticus 11-13:59