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Thoughts on the readings for February 18th (Exodus 29, Psalms 85, 86, Mark 14)

Exodus 29 outlines the consecration of the priests. The early verses describe the offerings that were required when the priests were consecrated. Verses 5-9 point out that Aaron and his sons were to be dressed in their holy robes of office for their induction into their roles. Verses 10-14 indicate that the priests were to place their hands upon the bull to be slain, as a sin offering. This was in effect an acknowledgment on their part of unworthiness and an acceptance of their need for blood to atone for their sins. These verses show the application of the blood involved in their consecration. Next the ram of consecration was to be offered as a burnt offering. Verses 19-21 cover the second ram, which was for an offering of dedication. The blood of this ram was to be placed on the ear lobes, on the thumbs and the big toes of the priests’ right foot. This spoke of their ears being open to God’s Word; their hands being dedicated to their Sovereign’s work; and their walk as faithful followers of the LORD their God. Verses 22-24 tell of wave offerings, which spoke of their service as Yahweh’s representatives. The remainder of the chapter deals with other aspects of their ordination and that this process would apply perpetually to the priesthood. The process of their consecration lasted for seven days. The priests were to be holy men acting in the service of God. Slowly read the last three verses of this chapter and ponder its meaning for you.
Psalm 85 is from the pen of the sons of Korah. The psalm’s theme is a plea for our Almighty Sovereign to revive us again. The Psalm begins with thankfulness to the Almighty for the favour to His people and His Land. Their Sovereign pardoned His people and would lead His people in the way of His salvation. Yahweh’s steadfast love had always been upon His beloved family. Read verses 8-13 slowly and aloud. Be elevated by the thought; and ride upon the high places of the earth, as your mind contemplates total peace and harmony with your God(Isaiah 26 verses1-4, 7-9).Psalm 86 is a Psalm of David’ in which he exalts in Yahweh’s steadfast love. David had pleaded day and night with his God for mercy; and he found the Almighty in his time of need. In verse 8 he alluded to the Mosaic law, which declared that there is no God like the loving and forgiving Father, whom we serve. All the nations of the world will learn this and turn to and worship before the God of Israel. So in verses 11-13 the psalmist requests that his Sovereign teach David and lead him in the paths of mercy and truth. David’s enemies had vexed him; but the LORD had in love delivered him. The Psalm is, of course, Messianic in its themes – particularly note how he calls himself in verse 16, “the son of your handmaid” (Mary describes herself in these terms in Luke 1:38). And so the writer concludes by requesting a sign of Yahweh’s favour.
In the record of Mark 14 and 15, we have, what’s believed to be, Peter’s accounting of the most horrific few days of his life. The 14th chapter commenced 2 days before the Lord’s crucifixion with his anointing in the home of Simon the leper, believed to be Martha’s deceased husband. It was this incident which incited Judas Iscariot to betray Jesus for 30 pieces of silver. Our Lord praised Mary’s extravagant act of love and understanding. Jesus sent Peter and John, to prepare the Lord’s supper. All had been secretly prearranged to prevent any interruptions to his Passover. During the memorial feast our Lord prophesied details of Peter’s betrayal. The supper having ended they went to Gethsemane where our Master’s greatest trial occurred. Here he begged of his Father to find another way than the cross, but was each time told there could be no alternative. Finally the struggle ended with Jesus submitting his own will to that of his Father and being strengthened by an angel. Judas arrived with a band of heavily armed thugs from the temple. A young man , quite likely Mark himself, escaped them after having tried to warn Jesus. Verses 53-65 tell of Jesus before the Council and the accusation of blasphemy levelled at him (surely this had been Judas’ doing) and The Master’s rebuttal from Daniel 7 verses 13-14. Peter’s threefold denial concluded the chapter. Peter was in great bitterness for denying his Lord. Peter’s repentance contrasts with Judas’ remorse. But Judas was not repentant.

Thoughts on the readings for February 17th (Exodus 28, Psalms 83, 84, Mark 13)

Exodus 28 describes the clothing of the priests and of the High priest. The clothing of Aaron and his four sons was, verse 2, for glory and for beauty since they were the LORD’s representatives. These garments were skilfully embroidered by Aholiab, whose name means “from the Father’s tent”. John Thomas wrote about these clothes one and a half centuries ago saying, that what the High Priest wore on his person spoke of the inwrought character of the Lord Jesus Christ. Verse 4 describes the clothing common to all five men – a white turban; a linen robe; a golden coloured sash; and a coat of linen of checkered work appearance woven throughout with threads of blue, purple, scarlet and gold. The scarlet spoke of his lowly sin prone human condition. The blue talked of him being motivated, as the Father’s only begotten Son, by the Word of God which permeated his thinking. The purple, being a mixture of red and blue, represents royalty. The gold was a token of tried and precious faith. The High Priest had two additional items attached to these garments – in the centre of his turban was a golden plate, which carried the engraved inscription, “Holiness to Yahweh” – speaking of the purpose of the High Priest’s life. The second item was a golden breastplate with 12 compartments each one containing a rare and precious gemstone. And upon each of the gemstones was an engraving of each of the twelve tribes of Israel. The breastplate covered Aaron’s heart. We sing a hymn that says, “the name of all the saints he bares, engraven on his heart”. (see verse 29). These, likewise, were a reminder of the High Priest’s role in representing his people when he approached his God. Verses 15-22 tell of the type of stones (compare the picture presented in Revelation 21); and how they were arranged. The breastplate was attached to two golden rings – one on each shoulder – and tied in place by a blue line lace. This blue lace spoke of the heavenly calling. Verse 30 tells us that the Urim and Thummim were placed within the breastplate; presumably in the back of it for the front was filled with glistening gemstones. Urim means “lights” and Thummim (“fires”, or “perfections”). The Urim spoke of the perfection that was to be found in all of these 12 stones together – every member of the ecclesia of God is an essential part. The Thummim were placed in the back of the breastplate. These may have been a white stone, signifying acceptance (see Revelation 2 verses 17,; 3 verse 12); and a black stone for an unfavourable judgment. (As an aside, which doesn’t relate to the clothing of the High Priest, the following Is submitted. The lot from the ephod is spoken of in the first book of Samuel several times. In the New Testament decisions by means of the casting of lots is referred to on a few occasions in the Acts of the Apostles – including for the replacement of Judas Iscariot in chapter 1). On the hem, or fringe (Hebrew “wing”, or “extremity”) of Aaron’s robe was an embroidery of blue, purple and scarlet. And dangling from the bottom of that garment were alternating golden bells and pomegranates. The pomegranate speaks of the ecclesia: a multitude (of seeds), united in the blood of Christ, by the blood of the Covenant (the red juice) in One (fruit). And the bell of the gospel message, which when heard would tell of the Lord’s life and its significance in gaining the victory over sin, saving the world, and having righteousness and eternal life gained by faithful believers. These were there, so the record says of the High Priest, “that he die not”. Later Leviticus tells of the High Priest elect being struck dead by God. Paul in writing to the Romans comments on the significance of the bell(Romans 10 verses14-18). Exodus 40 finishes by repeating that these clothes were “for glory and beauty”.
Psalm 83 is once more from Asaph. It describes the battle of Armageddon. The nations named as being confederate against Israel have never before been so many assembled together with one common purpose (verse 4). And in their hatred for Israel it also tells of their antagonism to God. The psalm recounts many memorable and historical victories when the Almighty rose up to defend His people. And He will always do this for He is a God who keeps covenant (Isaiah 54 verses17, Zechariah 2 verse 8). The psalm concludes with the thought that Yahweh will be known and magnified in His triumph. Think how frequently the refrain occurs in Ezekiel, when describing these times, “and they shall know that I am Yahweh”.Psalm 84 is from the sons of Korah and was sung by male voices. It speaks of the writer’s longing to dwell in the house of the LORD. The wonderfulness of worshiping in the presence of “the living God” is captured by this Psalm. Verses 3 and 4 tell of the blessing of a humble sparrow, or a swallow, to make a nest (that is home) close to God. Verse 5 likewise tells of the blessings for those in whose heart are the highways to Zion (RSV translation). Such people are pilgrims now. And though trials produce much weeping; these enable them to comfort and console their fellow pilgrims verse 6 tell us. Compare the Apostle Paul’s comments in 2 Corinthians 1 verses 3-7. These pilgrims are not destroyed by trials; they in fact make them stronger. The Almighty will hear the prayers of the faithful and be their defence in times of trouble. Verse 10 tells that the sons of Korah separated themselves from the wicked tents of their father (Numbers 16 verses 26-27) and were, consequently rewarded with the privilege and responsibility of being the doorkeepers of the Tabernacle (and in later times, the Temple). God is a fierce sun to destroy the wicked and the protector (shield) of a loving Father to His children. Blessed are all those who put their trust in their Sovereign.
Our 13th chapter in Mark tellsus of the Olivet prophecy. Jesus, in response to his disciples pointing out to him the magnificence of the temple precinct, tells them all stones of it will be overturned. Peter, James, John and Andrew ask him two questions in verse 4; which he answered in the subsequent verses to 27. Actually, the disciples ask three questions (Matthew 24 verse 3; and Luke in fact tells us two further questions). Verses 5-13 answer the first question and the concluding statement was relevant to that generation, and for all time – the one who endured to the end will be saved. The 14th to the 23rd verses link the prophecies of Daniel 8 and 9 to our Lord’s message. They have special reference to the Roman desolation of Jerusalem that would be fulfilled in the overturning of Zion by the emperors Vespasian and his son Titus in AD 70. The following 4 verses relate to the interval from then until Israel’s national restoration and identity in 1948. This is outlined in the parable of the fig tree from Vv28-31. An exhortation to watchfulness is from verses 32-37.

Thoughts on the readings for February 16th (Exodus 27, Psalms 81, 82, Mark 12)

Exodus 27 describes the first item of furniture encountered by the worshippers upon entering the courtyard of the Tabernacle. It is the bronze altar on which the sacrifices are placed. This teaches us that the first need of anyone who wants salvation is for the LORD to provide a redemptive sacrifice. It was made of bronze speaking of purified flesh – our Lord Jesus Christ offered himself, as a sinless man. The altar was made from acacia wood and overlaid with bronze. Its details, dimensions and accessories are described in verses 1-8. The description finishes with a reminder that its pattern spoke of Christ and was shown to Moses in Mount Sinai (Hebrews 13:10-15). The next eleven verses describe the curtains which were hung at the perimeter of the courtyard. Their dimensions, bases and method of attachment are given. These were of fine linen speaking of the righteous deeds of the believers, who surround their Lord Jesus Christ (see Revelation 19:8). The gate of the courtyard resembled the entrance of the Holy Place – linen embroidered with blue, purple, scarlet and golden threads. Verses 20 to the chapter’s end describe the faithful labours of God’s people in obtaining the pure golden olive oil for the Lampstand within the Holy Place. Aaron and his sons, the priests, were required to tend to the supplying of the oil and the tending to the wicks day and night. In the house of the LORD the light of the Word must continually burn brightly.
 cont reading... https://christadelphianvideo.org/thoughts-on-the-readings-for-february-16th-exodus-27-psalms-81-82-mark-12/

The Life Of Christ #71 The calling of the Disciples ( Matt 10:16-42) by John Martin

The Life Of Christ #71 The calling of the Disciples ( Matt 10:16-42) by John Martin

Thoughts on the readings for February 15th (Exodus 26, Psalms 79, 80, Mark 11)

Exodus 25 tells us of the Tabernacle itself. Verses 1-14 describe the curtains which served as the roof of the Tabernacle. Eleven curtains made of linen and embroidered with golden, blue and scarlet threads woven through the linen in a cherubic pattern. These would have been visible to the priests, who served in the Holy Place; and to the High Priest on the Day of Atonement, the one day each year when he entered the Most Holy Place. Three other layers covered the linen – a layer of goats hair dyed scarlet; a layer of rams’ skins; and finally, on top of these a waterproof layer of what has been translated as, badgers’ skins in the KJV; and was probably dugong skins. As well as forming the roof they covered the boards of acacia wood (themselves covered with beaten gold plates); at the sides and back end of the building, where the Most Holy Place was situated. The dugong covering would be seen by the priests in the courtyard and by the worshippers, who had brought their offerings. Verses 15-30 describe the acacia boards that formed the building. Like the covering curtains these were on both sides and at the rear of the structure. They were fastened to each other by bars which passed through coupling rings providing a unity for the frame and giving it rigidity and stability. It speaks of the role of the ecclesia, whereby believers support one another and are united in their goals. They were anchored in the ground by silver sockets – speaking of our hope is fixed and grounded by the redemptive work achieved in our Lord Jesus Christ. Verses 31-33 describe the veil, which separated the Most Holy Place from the zHoly Place. Again the veil, – which was linen and interwoven with threads of blue, purple, scarlet and gold – spoke of the work of Christ, in whom we can draw near to God. The writer to the Hebrews tells us that it spoke of the nature of Jesus, through which the divine characteristics inherited from his Father were woven (see Hebrews 9 verses 19-23). At the precise time Jesus died on the stake the veil in Herod’s temple was torn from top to bottom (Matthew 27 verse 51). This tearing of the temple curtain spoke of the removal of the sacrificial code of the Mosaic Law; and the bringing in of a better hope for faithful believers. Verses 34-35 provides a brief overview of some of the items of furniture within the Holy and Most Holy Places. The last verses of this chapter tells us of the entrance curtains through which the Tabernacle was entered. It was a linen screen of embroidered needlework with several similarities to the inner veil. It spoke of Christ, who is the door, or way of approaching the Father (John 10:1-6; 14:6).
Psalms 79 and 80 are two further psalms from this cluster of Asaph writings in Book 3 – psalms related to the Sanctuary. In Psalm 79 we have a plea for God to arise and deliver His people from their despised and downtrodden situation. It is a Psalm of the exile period when Israel found themselves in Babylonian captivity; and Jerusalem was in ruin. The first four verses tell of the devestating scenes as Babylonia took the city. Verses 5-7 call upon the Almighty to help and to rise to repay the oppression. From verses 8-12 the writer remembers the wrongdoing of God’s people and pleads for His Sovereign to remember to show mercy with His justice. He says, in verse 13, that when this happens the sheep of the LORD will graze securely and in thankfulness.Psalm 80 celebrates Yahweh as the Great Shepherd of Israel. The writer calls upon the mighty One of Jacob to shine forth from His cherubic chariot. This Psalm was a song sung by the female choir. God would lead the flock of Joseph – the doubly blessed son of Israel – like His flock. And the favour of Yahweh would rest upon the head of the one who was separate from his brothers. This of course describes Jesus as the Beloved and only Begotten Son of the Father. The redemptive process is prophetically described by two figures in this Psalm – the bow of the vine specifically strengthened by the Father to redeem us and to bring forth fruit (John 15 verses 1-11); and secondly in verses 17-19 that this Son would become, after his suffering (Ben-oni “son of my sorrowsGenesis 36 verses16-18, Isaiah 53) the Son of God’s right hand – Benjamin – (Psalm 110).
In the 11th chapter of Mark we read of Jesus’ triumphal entry to Jerusalem. He rode on a donkey, a colt the foal of an ass, in fulfilment of the prophecy of Zechariah 9. It was an animal that had never been ridden. It seems to suggest that our Lord Jesus would be the ruler/rider of the Gentiles. The crowds strewed their clothes and palm branches before Christ’s path, and shouted, ‘Hosanna’ (save now) as the prophecy predicted. We are additionally told they recited Psalm 118 verse 26. It is recommended that we read Psalm 11 verses 19-29 and meditate on the many messages from that Hal-eel – or Passover Psalm – this being Passover time. As it was late, our Lord and his Apostles headed to Bethany. The next morning, as they left Bethany, Jesus saw a fig tree that showed promise of early fruit; just like Israel, whose symbol that tree was. But finding no fruit on the tree our Lord cursed it. It was like the fruitless nation: Matthew 21 verse 43 – read and consider the context of these words. That day Jesus cleanses the temple from corruption – the second time see John 2 verses 13-17 this was first done three and a half years earlier at the commencement of our Lord’s ministry. That evening Christ returns to Bethany. The next morning the disciples were amazed at the withered tree and our Lord uses the opportunity to tell the power of persistent prayer. Jesus’ foes were confounded the following day by his masterful answer on the source of his authority.

Thoughts on the readings for February 14th (Exodus 24, 25, Psalm 78, Mark 10)

Exodus 24 deals with the confirmation of the covenant. The commencement tells us that Moses, Aaron, Nadab and Abihu (two of Aaron’s sons) together with 70 of the elders of Israel came towards God on the outskirts of Mount Sinai. Moses alone is invited to draw nearer. Moses rehearsed the LORD’s Words to the people of Israel. The people’s response was a promise to obey God’s commands. Moses arose early in the morning and constructed an altar of 12 unhewn stones and offered upon it burnt offerings and peace offerings. The blood was taken and used to sprinkle both the altar and the people. This was the method of confirming covenants. The altar spoke of God and the other party involved in the covenant God’s own people. After reading the book of the covenant to the the people their response was again to promise obedience. It was after that reading that the people of Israel were sprinkled with the blood that remained after the altar’s being redeemed by blood (Hebrews 9 verse 22). Moses, Aaron, Nadab, Abihu and 70 of Israel’s elders were now invited into the mountain to participate in a fellowship meal with the God of Israel. The glorious scene gives us a cameo of the kingdom. Then Moses was invited to go further into the mount to receive the two tables of stone containing the 10 commandments. Joshua accompanied Moses part of the way on that journey. The cloud covered the mountain and Yahweh’s glory was evident. Moses ascended the mountain and was in the presence of the LORD’s angel for forty days. Chapter 25 reveals the instructions for Israel regarding the construction of a Sanctuary for God to dwell among His people (verse 8). The free will contributions for the materials of the Tabernacle are described in verses 1-9. Note the repeated emphasis of the fact that the tabernacle was typical {verses 9 and 40} – the reality of the matter was that it was the pattern of which Christ was the reality ie the substance, as the writer to the Hebrews made clear in chapter 9 verses 23-28. Verses 10-30 describe the construction of the ark of the covenant – the only item of furniture that was found in the Most Holy Place – representing our Lord Jesus Christ in whom we find redemption. It was a box constructed from acacia wood and overlaid with gold. The former material speaking of his weakness and humanity. Whilst the gold spoke of his precious faith, which was the basis for our salvation. The lid of the box was made from one single solid peace of gold and was beaten into the shape of four living creatures, or cherubic figurines – lion, eagle, ox and man – speaking of the unity between our Lord and his faithful saints. The glory of Yahweh dwelt upon the box’s lid between the cherubim. That glory was called the Skekina glory (from the word “shakan” which means dwelling). The faithful saints beheld the glory of God which was evidenced in God’s Son (John 1 verses 14-18) and the blood sprinkled mercy seat representing the offering of our Lord Jesus Christ in whom we find sanctification. Verses 31-40 describe another vital piece of furniture speaking of an important part of our worship – the seven branched golden Lampstand. The number seven speaking of perfection and of the covenant. The gold of tried faith (1 Peter 1verse 7). It was also fashioned from gold and was extremely heavy weighing approximately 35 kilograms. It spoke of faithful labour in the Word to produce the pure olive oil that would burn to give light in what would otherwise have been a completely dark place – the Holy Place inside the tabernacle.
Psalm 78 is yet another from the pen of Asaph. He recounts the providence of the Almighty for His people Israel from their time in Egyptian bondage up to the care given to His people in the provision of the great shepherd-king David and beyond. It is a teaching Maschil designed to provoke Israel’s remembrance of the mighty deeds done for them by their Sovereign. It’s beginning speaks of employing the parabolic method that would be used by Messiah (see Matthew 13 verses10-17). Yet despite this method, which both revealed and concealed truths, it was of vital importance that the saving message be understood. Verses 5-8 said that it was to be told from generations in order to try to avoid repeating the errors of the past. The time of writing is after the division of the kingdom, in Rehoboam’s days – the grandson of David. It spoke in verse 9 of the aggressive nature of Ephraim, who assumed tribal dominance over 10 of the 12 tribes. From verses 10-14 it launches into its lessons about Israel’s failure to appreciate what was done for them in bringing them out of Egypt and through the Red Sea. Verses 15-20 speak of the LORD’s miraculous provision of water and manna in the desert. Yet in spite of this they grumbled and tempted their gracious God. Verses 20-31 tell how in addition to providing them sustenance their Sovereign slew the foremost of the rebels, Verses 32-35 said that the Almighty knew how this would be the way frail and perishing ungrateful people would behave. So He disciplined them till they sought Him once more. Verses 36-41 tells that once the chastening hand of God was lifted they reverted to their evil and thankless ways. In verses 42-51 the writer records the plagues on Egypt and said, “How could God’s people possibly forget what Yahweh had done for His children”. The fifty second to fifty fourth verses reminded the hearers of the Fatherly compassion and care with which they had been brought to Sinai. Verses 55 to 58 reminded Israel of the help that they received in taking the Land. Did they respond with gratitude? No! (Verse 59) And so the Almighty allowed the plundering of His Sanctuary at Shiloh by the Philistines. He next told of their suffering under the yoke of bondage brought by the Philistines. Then Yahweh arose and took vengeance against the adversaries of His people. Verses 67-68 tell of the great division of the kingdom. But the Psalm concludes on a triumphant note that Solomon built a house for praise and worship. And before that the great Shepherd of Israel gave to His people a mighty shepherd to lead them and to feed them in “the paths of righteousness” (Psalm 23 verses 1-6).
In the record of Mark 10 Jesus tells us, that the Mosaic law sought to regulate putting away. The practice of divorce had become rife in our Lord’s time. Jesus indicates that ‘putting away’ was foreign to the Father’s purpose in marriage described at the end of Genesis 2. The Almighty’s purpose in marriage is elaborated in Malachi 2 verses 11-16. The record says that children were invited to come to Jesus for blessing in order to show that humility is essential for entry to the kingdom. The chapter says that a rich young ruler, who was deeply loved for his sincerity by Jesus, found his love of his possessions an obstacle too great to overcome. The amazed Apostles were promised a place in the kingdom for faithfulness. For the third time Jesus foretells of his suffering, death and rising. We are told that James and John came secretly to Jesus seeking the positions of honour in his glory – to sit at our Lord’s right and left hand – in his kingdom. Those two Apostles are told that they would suffer for his sake and that the Father alone could give such honours. The Lord’s ministry, Jesus says, is service. This must also be true for all of Christ’s followers. The chapter concludes by telling us that blind Bartimaeus was cured and follows Jesus.

Thoughts on the readings for February 13th (Exodus 23, Psalm 77, Mark 9)

Exodus 23 has three chapter directions - verses 1-9 are about honest dealings between Israelites and with strangers (the reason is stated in verse 9 to remember your powerless position when the Almighty became your protector). Verses 10-19 laws about the Sabbaths and the major Festivals; and two sundry laws about principles of living. Verses 20-33 the conquest of the Promised Land is guaranteed and some vital instructions about Israel's behaviour once they have taken the Land. The theme which ties this chapter together is the love and care of their Father for His children. This must be seen in their actions honouring Him and showing compassion in dealing with other people. Returning to the start of the chapter tells us that malicious tale bearers are not to be tolerated. Justice must equally apply to all, rich or poor. The care of property was essential among all Israelites. God will hold His people accountable to ensure these standards are applied throughout His kingdom. They must never take a bribe. The LORD had cared for them when no one else had. Verses 10-11 tell us agricultural laws which ensured that the land observed Sabbath principles, which benefited everyone. Verse 12 says that the Israelites were to keep a weekly Sabbath. Verse 13 forbids idolatry. Verses 14-17 speak of the observance of the three major Festivals - first the Passover, then the Feast of Weeks: called Pentecost and thirdly Tabernacles. These feasts, or convocations occurred at their set, ie appointed times. Verse 18 tells of matters relating to sacrifices (no leaven; ie corruption was not allowed to be present with the offering). Verse 19 is a curious one here - it speaks of the sensitiveness relating to what was to be eaten. This implied the need to preserve life; that it might be allowed to continue (since the life of human and animal all belong to God). In the next section the Almighty promises His people angelic protection during their journey to the Promised Land. The Israelites must not take this care for granted, but need to be obedient to all that their Creator has commanded. When Israel entered the Land they must not have anything to do with those nations that God had commanded to be utterly destroyed. Those nations were to be totally removed . The LORD would do it gradually so that the wild beasts, which shared the Land, would not take over. In verse 28 the Almighty promised to send hornets into the Land before their entry - this may be a reference to the Pharaoh Amenhotep the third (known as "the hornet"), who made many raids on Canaan at this time. The boundaries of the Land are given and verse 31 - these are the same boundaries as those promised to Abraham. Failure to follow God's instructions would result in Israel's destruction.
Psalm 77 is yet another from the pen of Asaph. He recounts the providence of the Almighty for His people Israel from the time when Yahweh, by the hand of Moses, led the people as a great shepherd through the paths of the Red Sea. It is remarkable how many of the  Levitical, ie Sanctuary Psalms of Asaph focus on the role of the shepherd. For indeed the role of the Sanctuary is to be that of the shepherd. Psalm 80 from the pen of Asaph (and most likely his sons) addresses God as Israel's supreme Shepherd. Why I included Asaph's sons is because of the time span covered by these psalms up to and including Psalm 83. The seventy seventh Psalm thematically speaks of the LORD's awesome past deeds when delivering His people from their origins until the deliverance from Egypt. The Psalm shows a pattern of behaviour that God's people may count on - since He is Yahweh Elohim of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob. He will always show His power to protect His covenant people. The Psalm is a plea, and a prayer, to the LORD for deliverance out of distress. The Psalm affirms God's past deliverance for the faithful and therefore is a Psalm in which the writer assures himself, and his listeners, that his Sovereign is near and will help him in his time of need. Asaph's reflections on the past reinforce his trust for the future. Verse 8 recalls the steadfast love of the Almighty. Though, in verse 9, he declares his occasional doubt. Verses 10-19 take Asaph's mind, by way of meditation, to ponder the past awesome delivery afforded to the people of the LORD as they passed through the paths of the sea. They were the flock of Israel's mighty Shepherd. The Almighty commissioned Moses to shepherd His people for the next 40 years. This is how the psalm finishes in verse 20. At the start of the Psalm the writer was miserable, but by its end he was elated. What had changed? Nothing, except his perception that his life was in God's right hand (verse 10). This a great lesson for all children of the Almighty for all ages.
Mark 9 deals with the revelation of the Lord Jesus Christ in power and glory, as seen in his transfiguration. The three; Peter, James and John; were the witnesses of Jesus being seen with Moses and Elijah. Those three were asked to keep secret what they had seen until after Jesus' raising. In the meantime the remainder of the twelve were frustrated by their incapacity to heal a deaf and mute boy. Our Lord pointed out that miracles of healing were not automatic, but rather, were dependent on the involvement of the healer. Once more Jesus spake of his death and resurrection leaving them dumbfounded. A dispute as to who was the greatest arose and was answered via the lesson of the humility of a Jesus answered the question via the lesson of humility by a child being seen by them. Our Lord reminds those Apostles that without humility none can enter the kingdom. Christ next warns us not to categorise people who are not identical to ourselves. The chapter closes with the need for self examination and drastic action in order to enter the kingdom.

Thoughts on the readings for February 12th (Exodus 22, Psalms 75, 76, Mark 8)

The first fifteen verses of Exodus 22 deal with restitution of property. The theft of a sheep, when discovered had to be repaid fourfold: cp David's repaying for his theft of a ewe lamb in losing four of his sons 2 Samuel 12 verses 1-6. There were different rates for other animals. Verses 5-6 cover damage to grain through negligence - non controlling of a beast, or fire. Verses 7-13 deals  with property entrusted to another; and outlines the discussion around resolution of an arising disagreement. In verses 14-15 deals with hiring arrangements. Verses 16-31 centre around being holy people in their dealings with their neighbours. All dealings are underlined by the need to be just, fair and kind. All of these laws centre around protecting the weakest members of society and ensuring care is provided for them. The laws also provide advice for dealing with those powerful members of the community who would often exploit those people who are downcast.
Psalms 75 and 76 are both from the pen of Asaph. There is a cluster of psalms here in the Sanctuary psalms of Book 3. They are all addressed to the Choirmaster. Psalm 75 is a prayer that God will rise up to judge the world in equity and righteousness. It begins with thanksgiving to the Almighty for His past faithfulness. Next the psalmist declares that he knows that God has appointed a set time for judgment:Psalm 102 verses 13-22; Acts 17 verses 30-31;2 Timothy 4 verses 1-2. In this we too can rejoice. The Almighty would bring judgment from neither the east, nor the west; it always came from the north. God is the Judge, a kindred word to Dan; which tribe's inheritance was in the north. The cup in the Omnipotent Creator's hand contains the wine of retribution, which will be poured upon the guilty from all nations - those drunken with their own sense of self importance; and they drain that cup to the very bottom. Then will the faithful righteous be joyful in their Mighty One and exultant in Him.Psalm 76 tells the hearer that then Judah will be exalted and honoured Zechariah 8:20-23. Verses 2-4 describe the glorious abode of the LORD in Zion - the elevated world capital: Psalm 48 Isaiah 2 verses 1-5, Jeremiah 3 verses16-17;Matthew 5 verses 34-35. Once God has risen for judgment who can stand against Him and that His purpose cannot be frustrated by mere mortals. Those who remain no matter how important they were prior to His great work will be humbled by the Almighty when He has executed His judgement and all the earth will praise and worship the Almighty God of Israel.
Mark's 8th chapter commences with the feeding of 4,000. The record contains some contrasts with that of the 5,000 - 1) the 5,000 were Jewish, the 4,000 were not; 2) the Apostles had immediate compassion for the 5,000, but no compassion for the others despite watching the multitude enduring for 3 days without any food; 3) the numbers of bread and fishes involved differed and taught different messages out of the feedings. This is followed by the rulers asking, but not receiving another sign. A discussion between our Lord and his enemies ensued about leaven. The disciples assume that Jesus was rebuking them for forgetting to take food. How illogical this was for he had shown his power to make food. It was about the corrupt influence of wrongful teaching. The chapter continues with the healing of a blind man. This man was cured by stages and took place at Bethsaida, illustrating the problem of perception - we so often, like that man see people out of proportion. Jesus next questions his Apostles on other people's perception of himself. Then our Lord asks them who they thought him to be. Several answers were given until Peter responded by declaring that Jesus was the Christ, the Son of the Living God. All of the Apostles are charged to not reveal this until after our Lord Jesus Christ has been raised from the dead. Once again our Master speaks of his despicable treatment, crucifixion and resurrection the 3rd day. The chapter finishes with an appeal for each of us to take up our stake daily to follow our Lord Jesus.

Thoughts on the readings for February 11th (Exodus 21; Psalm 74; Mark 7)

Exodus 21 covers laws about slaves (verses 1-32) and laws about the restitution (verses 33-36). Slavery was a part of the world from the beginning of time until recently. In some countries it still exists. Israel had just been delivered from two centuries of servitude in Egypt. There Israel were severely afflicted and cruelly abused. Yahweh would not suffer His people to treat others as they had been treated. Note the premise the Lord GOD of Israel used to preface His Ten Commandments; and indeed the basis of the entire Law of Moses (Exodus 20:2) – “I am Yahweh your God, who brought you out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of slavery” (ESV). Servitude was to be limited to 6 years and at the conclusion of this time the slave was totally free. All slaves were restored to their original family situation. The exception to this was the voluntary slave, who out of love for his master chose to continue in service. The token of this free will offering was the opening of the lobe of the slave’s ear with an awl at the doorpost of the house, in which he had chosen to stay with and serve. Our minds go to the love of our Lord Jesus Christ for His Father. Our Lord chose perpetual service in the Father’s house – Psalm 40:6; Isaiah 50:4-7; Hebrews 3:1-6 all quotes from the ESV. And to verse 14 additional regulations about slaves are outlined. Verse 15 restates the need for respect for father and mother. Verse 16 covers kidnapping. Verse 17 tells that our words to our parents must be respectful. From the 18th verse onwards are additional directions for the fair and just treatment of slaves; and the respectful dealings with those slaves. Abuse of slaves was abhorrent and there were penalties applied. The rules for slaves seems curious in that it talks of an ox’ goring of a slave; but of course this was prophetic of the rulers of Israel and their savaging of Yahweh’s servant (Psalm 22:12-13). The laws about restoration speak of respect for and proper behaviour towards one’s neighbour and his possessions.
Psalm 74 is a Maschil from the pen of Asaph, the Recorder, or Secretary, during the reign of king David. The Psalm is a call for God to arise and defend His cause. The psalm commences with a question as to why the LORD has not seemingly cast them off in His anger. The psalmist calls upon His God to remember what He has done for His people, His heritage in Zion. The Psalm appears to have been written after a period of trial for His people. The destruction of the Sanctuary may have referred to the Philistine destruction of the Tabernacle at Shiloh, when Samuel was a child. The Philistines disdained the God of Israel. In verse 11 the writer calls upon the Almighty to repay his foes. The psalmist relates God’s past awesome deeds, such as His bringing His people safely through the Red Sea; His provision for Israel of water from the rock as His people wandered through the wilderness on the way to the Promised Land. God’s might in His creative acts at the beginning are related in verses 16-17. The Psalm concluded with the request for God to arise, defend His heritage and vindicate the poor and needy. The Omnipotent Creator does this because He is a faithful God, who keeps Covenant.
The 7th chapter of Mark contrasts worship that has been nullified by tradition, with true worship from the heart. The Pharisees found fault in Jesus’ disciples who washed not after tradition. The Pharisees were noted for their elaborate ceremonies when washing: they washed so as to prevent water contaminated by dirt from contacting their hands. Our Lord used this to tell that this was symptomatic of the worship of that time. He spoke of the gross avoidance of responsibility contained in the 5th commandment by the ruse of Corban. Then he showed that defilement is a moral, not physical, matter. This originated in the mind. The record follows with the curing of the Syrophenician woman’s daughter; made possible through her great faith, and the acknowledgment that Israel were God’s chosen people. She illustrates the importance of being associated with God’s covenant people and on the basis of her faithful confession she gratefully receives the crumbs that fall from the children’s table. As Jesus says to the woman of the well at Sychar: “Salvation is from the Jews” John 4:22-26. The chapter concludes with the healing of a deaf and dumb man from the Decapolis.

Thoughts on the readings for February 10th (Exodus 19, 20, Psalm 73, Mark 6)

Exodus 19 tells us that it was on the third new moon of the year that the Israelites arrived at Sinai, to worship God as Moses had been told in Exodus 3. Calculations reveal that the 10 commandments were given 50 days after the Passover (hence the New Testament name for the Feast for this occasion, Pentecost). In verses 4-6 Yahweh reminds Israel of His might exercised on their behalf and His care for His people. He was like a mother eagle: Deuteronomy 32 verses 5-13. Israel were called to holiness; to be a kingdom of priests to bring the nations to the God of Israel. The same is true for believers now (1 Peter 2verses 5-6).Verses 7-15 tell us that the waiting Israelites must reverently prepare for the coming awesome occasion when God would deliver the ten commanding words to His people. They were terrified by the prospect. But were even more disturbed by the events of that day. The writer to the Hebrews described these events in chapter 12 verses 18-21, but we also find by contrast the wonderful situation for faithful believers in Christ Jesus (Verses 22-28). The drama of the day when the Law was first given is captured by the build up reconstructed in verses 16-24. So terror struck were the people that they pleaded for Moses to speak with God in order that they die not.Chapter 20 enumerated the Ten Commandments. They started with those which outlined their responsibilities to God and concluded with those duties to their fellow human beings (Matthew 22 verses 34-40). The first is our priority – God must be first in our lives (Interestingly the 10th teaches us the same lesson – “You shall not covet”. Anything which takes our love away from God; anything which reduces our service to Him is an idol Colossians 3:1-5, emphasis on verses 5; Luke 12 verses13-21;and 1 John 5 verses 19-21. Interestingly the second commandment in verse 4 of Exodus 20 is “You shall not make graven images” is omitted in the Catholic Bible, which breaks the tenth commandment into two in that version. This is unsurprising as nearly all Catholic Churches are filled with icons and images which they worship. The fourth commandment’s principles have been important from the beginning of creation; but, also interestingly enough, is the only commandment to not be reiterated in the New Testament. The fifth commandment also is unique in that it is the only command with a blessing that accompanies its observance – “Honour your father and your mother, that your days may be long on the earth”: Ephesians 6verses 1-4. Paul tells us that God places great importance on this command, and therefore we ought to take great care to carry it out. Commandments 6-10 appear to be negative don’t do this, don’t do that. But consider the import of what they taught to the spiritually minded – Romans 12 verses12-21;James 2:8-13. So, although the Law of Moses given to the Israelites at Sinai is not binding on believers in the Lord Jesus Christ, the principles of the Ten Commandments are enduring and teach us how we should live in this present evil world; as we await the coming of our King. For those commandments were written by “the finger of God”: Exodus 31 verse18. Verses 22 to the end of Exodus 20 describe the construction of, and worship at, altars. They were to be made from whole stones shaped by God without human embellishments – speaking of Christ,our altar: Hebrews 13 verses10-16. No flesh was to be exposed by any worshipper, telling us of the devotion and reverence needed when drawing near to our God.
Psalm 73 commences Book 3 of the Psalms. They are the Leviticus psalms to the theme of “In the Sanctuary”. The issues addressed in this Psalm are the same as those in Psalm 37. Though the wicked appear to prosper – an illusion – in the end those who reverently serve God will dwell eternally in His Sanctuary on earth, when Messiah reigns. Despite the evidence that the LORD has been good to His people, the psalmist envies the wicked. The evildoers seem to go unpunished despite their failure to be subjected to any of God’s commandments. The psalmist describes their scorn for the Almighty, shown by their lifestyle; which seemed to say, that there is no God; or He is indifferent to my behaviour. Were this true, the writer declares, there would be no point in following the ways of the LORD. Similar arguments were put by the wrongdoers at the time of Malachi’s prophecy. The writer says that it was only when he came to worship in the Temple that he understood the hopeless end for the wicked. But when one comes to understand the fear of God in the Sanctuary, then our thinking is reversed. It is the evil and their way of living that sealed their doom. The psalmist became thankful for God’s faithfulness and deliverance. And so the writer declares his joy in that his Creator is with him; and he could not ask for any better situation. No matter what could befall him his confidence remains unshakable. And so he encourages his hearers to make Yahweh their everlasting hope.
In Mark 6 Jesus returns to Nazareth where the previous 28 years of his life were spent. There above all other towns he should have been acclaimed. But this was not to be; as he declares “a prophet is without honour in his own country”. In the words of John 1:12 “he came to his own and his own received him not”. His capacity for healing here was limited by their unbelief. The twelve Apostles were sent out with a message for the hearers to repent. Their message was supported by the testimony of miracles. There follows a lengthy account of the death of John the Baptist – which includes Herod’s respect for John’s character. This was a trial for both the vicious Herod and the virtuous John. The Jezebel-like Salome secured John’s death. The report of John’s demise was devastating for Jesus, who sought solitude and time to reflect – his own death was but 12 months away. But crowds sought him and he had compassion for them, as they were “sheep lacking a shepherd”. Joshua had asked the same request of Yahweh following Moses’ death. 5,000 men, not counting women and children, are fed from five loaves and two fish. The twelve baskets of fragments are collected. The remains were greater than the initial fare. One lesson being that through Israel Messiah would feed the world. After this our Lord walks upon the Sea of Galilee indicating that he has power over the nations. And finally the boat into which Jesus enters reaches the shore. In this Jesus demonstrates that he would be the healer of the nations.