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THE LEADER OF THE PACK

Yesterday we learned our High Priest Jesus teaches us how to live in obedience to God. That is not the only reason for training us in his ways. In the same way that human high priests had regular priests serving under them, we are Christ’s priesthood (1 Peter 2).

Through Christ’s mediation as High Priest, we have royal priestly privileges and duties. “And you are living stones that God is building into his spiritual temple. What’s more, you are his holy priests.[a] Through the mediation of Jesus Christ, you offer spiritual sacrifices that please God” (1 Peter 2:5, NLT). Jesus’ one perfect sacrifice has opened up a way for us to serve in God’s Kingdom.

In the same way the Old Testament priests had to be selected to enter into God’s presence, we received a special entry pass through Christ. We report for duty in God’s Kingdom by entering his throne room. “You are royal priests, a holy nation, God’s very own possession. As a result, you can show others the goodness of God, for he called you out of the darkness into his wonderful light” (1 Peter 2:9, NLT).

In Aaron’s day, God’s goodness and glory only appeared in the tabernacle after all necessary sin offerings were made (Leviticus 9). Then, after the high priest experienced the glory in the tabernacle, he could bless others with it. “Then Moses and Aaron went into the Tabernacle, and when they came back out, they blessed the people again, and the glory of the Lord appeared to the whole community” (Leviticus 9:23, NLT). Today, our job is to bless the world with Jesus, who is God’s glory personified.

What does it mean for you to be part of Christ’s royal priesthood? How can you bring God’s glory to the people around you?

Let us show God’s goodness to others by allowing his light to shine through us. “‘You are the light of the world—like a city on a hilltop that cannot be hidden… In the same way, let your good deeds shine out for all to see, so that everyone will praise your heavenly Father” (Matthew 5:14-16, NLT).