Date: 02-09-2021

Title: Stones of Remembrance

(S) cripture:
    Exodus 28:9-12 (NLT2) ⁹  “Take two onyx stones, and engrave on them the names of the tribes of Israel. ¹⁰  Six names will be on each stone, arranged in the order of the births of the original sons of Israel. ¹¹  Engrave these names on the two stones in the same way a jeweler engraves a seal. Then mount the stones in settings of gold filigree. ¹²  Fasten the two stones on the shoulder-pieces of the ephod as a reminder that Aaron represents the people of Israel. Aaron will carry these names on his shoulders as a constant reminder whenever he goes before the LORD.

Exodus 28:29 (NLT2) ²⁹  “In this way, Aaron will carry the names of the tribes of Israel on the sacred chestpiece over his heart when he goes into the Holy Place. This will be a continual reminder that he represents the people when he comes before the LORD.

(O) bservation:
    The two stones on the shoulders and the twelve stones on his chestpiece of his priestly garments were to be reminders that when he was entering the Holy Place he was representing all the people of Israel not just himself.

(A) pplication:
    This is a great and sobering reminder that what we do as pastors is not just for ourselves but for the people we serve. The church directory serves as a great help in reminding me of my commitment to the people of New Baptist. As a staff we have a goal of contacting each family regularly. We have divided the directory into thirds and over about six weeks we try to make a personal contact with each family on our part of the list. We then over time are able to contact each family. It is a reminder to me that I bring these people with me when I do what God has called me to do.

(P) rayer:
    Lord make me ever mindful of the people I serve and their needs as I serve you. Thank you for tools like a church directory that help. Our garments may be different today but the role and responsibilities are very much the same.