"The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make his face shine on you and be gracious to you; the Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace." Numbers 6:24-26 NIV
The last hymn has been sung, and the presider of the worship service conducts one final act. Facing the congregation, they give a blessing known as the benediction. The body of Christ nourished by their encounter with Him are sent forth to be his examples in the world.
The passage for today is called The Priestly Blessing, given to Moses by God for Aaron to say as a blessing on Israel. Through Jesus Christ, this blessing is extended to all people. When we read these verses, remember this is the Lord speaking of himself to the people. We can replace "the Lord" with "I will" and "his" with "my."
I will bless you and keep you;
I will make my face shine on you and be gracious to you;
I will turn my face toward you and give you peace.
In doing this, we hear an intimacy in this assurance. God is making it personal. He loves and cares for us. He keeps watch and protection over us, extending his kindness and compassion, and granting us peace. We do not need to worry or be fearful, for God resides in us through the Holy Spirit.
Leaving behind the four walls of the meeting place, we go into the world with this extraordinary intimate promise. We are sent out with a commission to live as disciples. As witnesses of Christ's good news, we are to share His message and transform the world around us.
Almighty Father, we give thanks for your intimate, eternal love for us. You bless us in so many ways. Please help us to be your messengers to those around us. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.
Blessings,
Pastor Tim
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