Today’s Reading, Numbers 35-36
Focal Scripture: Numbers 35:3 “The cities will be for them to live in, and their pasturelands will be for their herds, flocks, and all their other animals.”
Today’s devotion might seem a little self serving but it must be addressed. I have served as a pastor on staff at several churches. On most occasions I believe the church did a very good job of taking care of me finically to meet the needs we had as a family. Most churches were generous and would try and make sure our family was not in desperate need of anything so we could minister well. Unfortunately, a few times I had churches make it very clear that I was a hired servant and my personal needs would not be met. This often happened in the sense of time.
In today’s reading we find out that the Israelites were going to give some of the land to the Levities. This was happening so they could receive a payment for their dedication to the Lord. These cities would allow them to give rest to their people and prepare them for ministry . It would also allow them to feed, equip, and prepare their animals for worship and service. This land met a very tangible need the priests had in their life.
The challenge we face today is how to best honor the priest or pastor in your life. One thing is sure, when it comes to honoring these individuals, it rarely happens. I can give a great example to prove my point. I keep a file in my desk of all the papers and writings I have received that were positive. I have received way more negativity than positivity, according to my folder, and yet I am expected to carry on given my position of ministry.
So what can be done on a practical level? First, start treating pastors as professionals. Pay them for their job and understand that they are always on call. Being on staff means very little down time. It also means too much time away from a family that has already sacrificed.
The point of today is to honor the priest/pastor in your life. Understand that you might not be able to meet their finical need but you can meet a spiritual, physical, or even emotional need. The best way I have been remembered in my ministry is by people allowing me to have extra time with family. The Lord has allowed me to receive vacations as gifts. He has also allowed me have adventures that would be impossible unless people poured into me and my family.
The challenge I have for you today is to look for ways to serve the priest in your life. Be extravagant, because ministry is difficult and often lonely. Serve the priest and and watch what happens to his soul. Then don’t forget to give an encouraging word.
Tomorrow, I plan on reading Deutermonmy 1-2
