Daily EncouragementSample

All the offerings involved in the process of setting apart Aaron and his sons emphasize that in the service of God there is need for continual cleansing and complete consecration. The ram mentioned here is “the ram for ordination” and its blood is solemnly applied to the ear, hand and foot of each priest as he is appointed to his task.

Everyone who recognises the priesthood of all believers will sense the present relevance of the ancient ritual. “By this type,” says Andrew Bonar, “the whole person is visibly dedicated to the Lord. Every power and faculty is consecrated. The Lord touches with blood his right ear, right hand, right foot, as if to say, “I claim from thee the exercise of every faculty and property of body and soul, to be used in my service.” From head to foot he is marked by blood and set apart.”

In the holiness of life and service envisaged fills the Lord’s servant with godly fear, there is also great encouragement in recognising that it is by blood that he is set apart. For the blood which consecrates is cleansing blood, and to walk in the light is to experience the continual power of the blood of Jesus, which purifies from every sin (1 John 1:7).