The garments for the priests and their consecration and ordination ceremonies can instruct us because Jesus, we’re told, is our High Priest. That must mean that we need a High Priest. Without a priesthood as part of our worship practice, we are ignorant about a priest’s function. So there’s a good reason God preserved this information for us! Keep in mind that I Peter 2 verses 5 and 9, and Revelation 1:6 teach that we, God’s New Testament people, are also called priests. So what does a priest do?
The priest brought the people before the Lord as he performed His duties wearing the garments bearing the stones representing each tribe. He was the intermediary between God and the people. Recall how frightened the people were to meet with God at the foot of the mountain, preferring to keep their distance; this is a welcome and potentially dangerous role. As intermediary, his work would be to make payment for the sins of the people and make known God’s will and word to them.
The role merited beautiful, impressive, and modest garments. It was exclusive to those with the right family connections, but even then, those chosen had to be set aside for the role and purified in a seven-day ceremony.
What does this indicate to you about the needs we have for a High Priest today? What does it teach you about Messiah’s work on your behalf? What does it teach you about your role as a priest? Today’s reading is an opportunity to ponder these ideas prayerfully, and learn from God.