Position of Honor

    Since the beginning there have been people that God placed in a position that other people saw as honored.  Before you get jealous look at all the things these people have to deal with that you do not.  There are perks and draw backs to every position or stage in life.  They were chosen because of how they could best serve God and bring people to Him.

    God chose His priest among all the Israelites.  He wanted the leadership to be fully established while the people were uncomfortable, so that when they got to the promised land there would be no confusion, dispute, or misconceptions.  When people are uncomfortable, they are more likely to listen than when things are going well.

    The priest were responsible for every single person among them.  That is a lot of pressure, but a position of honor too.  They got a special wardrobe.  It was beautiful and specifically made for them to be seen, but it was also heavy.  God did not want them to forget the burden that they carried.  It also had the names of the tribes engraved in their robes, so they had no excuse to forget.

    Aaron was over all the priest.  He was set apart by his head piece.  It said "Holy is the Lord".  It seems like a crown, but it glorified God instead of him.  The point was to be noticed as God's servant everywhere he went.  It was not to bring attention to himself.  

    When a leader forgets that their responsibility for the people, then their motives become selfish.  When this happens the people suffer and one day so does the leader.  Leaders also have to be careful how they live because of all the eyes are on them.  If they mess up it gives people the impression that it is okay.  If it is a spiritual leader, then it also tells non-believers that Christians are no different from them, so why should they bother.

    All Christians are leaders.  You dont have to like it, but you do have to accept it.  You have to turn every part of yourself to God, so that the people see Him.  It is okay to want to be seen or noticed.  It is just important to keep it in perspective.  

Exodus 28