2/23/24

Michael Moran

Good morning!

Text:  Leviticus 9-11; Proverbs 15:1-17

So, now things get interesting in Leviticus.   As Chapter 9 closes, the
tabernacle worship has been inaugurated, and the Lord has shown His approval
by sending fire from heaven which consumes the sacrifices.  Delighted, the
people cry out for joy, and in fearful reverence for the Lord they fall on
their faces.  What an amazing scene.

Then, the opening verses of Chapter 10 are a shocker.
Now Nadab and Abihu, the sons of Aaron, each took his censer and put fire in it and laid incense on it and offered unauthorized fire before the Lord, which he had not commanded them.  And fire came out from before the Lord and consumed them, and they died before the Lord. (Leviticus 10:1-2)
This is frightening reminder that the worship of the Lord is not some lark, but is instead very serious business.  The Lord demands to be glorified, to be honored, and for those near to Him  (like us believers) the standard is the highest.

So – how careful are we in our spiritual preparation for worship?  Do we take it lightly?  Do we feel comfortable coming in a casual way, perhaps chatting with our neighbors or arriving late?   It is wonderful that we can delight in His goodness, love and the intimacy He offers us.  Are we to worship joyfully and with songs and excitement?  Absolutely.  But, our approach to God also needs to have in view that He is to be revered, honored and feared.

in Him,  Mike