The Jesus Bible Reading PlanSample

ASSIGNED FOR SERVICE

For centuries, the Levites served in and around the tabernacle — the portable tent of meeting that housed the ark of the covenant and the many accessories used in worship (Nu 4:5 – 15). Israel’s priests managed the sacrificial system and took responsibility for disassembling and reassembling the tent each time the camp relocated. When the Lord arranged for Israel to rest from the threat of war in the last years of David’s reign, the king seized the opportunity to reassign the Levites to new responsibilities. This coincided with plans for building a permanent temple in Jerusalem — the portable tent would no longer be necessary. With forethought and care, David managed Israel’s leaders for optimum effectiveness in service to the Lord (1Ch 23:2 – 6).

This is similar to how Jesus loves and serves the church. He assigns various spiritual gifts as needed, for the good of the body of Christ (Ro 12:4 – 8). Just as national changes in the era of King David called for adjustments in the use of leaders, so Christ manages the church’s changing needs — assigning specific gifts to empower ministry. Spiritual gifts are meant to serve the church body, enable it to perform its mission to the world and glorify God through Jesus (1Pe 4:10 – 11).

Jesus, please show me a way that I can use my gifts to serve you and your kingdom today. Amen.