Sunday, April 25, 2010

Leviticus 8.1-13, 30-36, Luke 9.1-17 - Lectionary for 4/25/10 - Fourth Sunday of Easter

Today's readings are Leviticus 8.1-13, 30-36 and Luke 9.1-17.

We see today how Aaron and his sons are consecrated to serve as priests.  In brief, observe two things.  First, they do not consecrate themselves, but are consecrated by Moses, God's servant.  Likewise, we do not set ourselves apart for service, but God sets us apart for service.  The calling is not merely our interest, but it is God's interest.  He is the one who calls and appoints people to their tasks, whether serving in a pastoral ministry or serving in some other vocation.  Second, we see that Aaron , his sons, and the very place of ministry, the tabernacle, are set apart for their service in a very particular and definitive manner.  It is obvious to everyone that Aaron and his sons are to be doing something different.  They look different, they wear special clothes, they are publicly anointed.  They have special rules for their behavior.  They are not to blend in with everyone else.

As a side note, observe the anointing happens with a ceremonial sprinkling.  Many commentators will compare the New Testament baptism to this anointing for service as a direct offshoot, a ceremonial washing.  This would tend to inform our understanding of baptism as something which does not necessarily involve an immersion in water, as well as a rite in which God is really present and actually sets the recipient apart for a life of consecrated service.



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