Numbers 17-18 provides several insights into godly leadership.
The LORD called Aaron and his sons to be priests. In the previous chapters, Korah, Dathan and Abiram led a rebellion against this leadership.
The LORD gave Aaron a sign to confirm his leadership as priest. His rod budded. “I am giving you the service of the priesthood as a gift.”
With the gift of authority came responsibility. “You, your sons and your family are to bear the responsibility for offenses connected with the sanctuary.”
Spiritual leaders of the New Testament, when they speak God’s word, also exercise godly authority. But the burden of responsibility is heavy for them too.
Of all the sufferings that Paul lists in 2 Corinthians 11, he saves this for last: “Besides everything else, I face daily the pressure of my concern for all the churches. Who is weak, and I do not feel weak? Who is led into sin, and I do not inwardly burn?”
A spiritual leader takes on the responsibility to care for others.
In our New Testament lesson (Mark 14:22-42), we see Jesus, our Great High Priest, carrying the heavy burden of responsibility for our offenses. “My soul is overwhelmed with sorrow to the point of death.”
His prayer serves as a model for us when we are overwhelmed: “Abba, Father, everything is possible for you. Take this cup from me. Yet not what I will, but what you will.”
You are blessed with the gift of spiritual authority
- When you serve in a role at church, or
- When you as a parent are the pastor of your Family Church, or
- When you as a friend are concerned about the spiritual welfare of a loved one…
When your burden of responsibility becomes more than you can bear…
Don’t trust your strength like Peter did. Instead, follow in the footsteps of our Great High Priest. Watch and pray: “Abba, Father, everything is possible for you. Take this cup from me. Yet not what I will, but what you will.” Amen.
