Following the Instructions

Scripture: He then washed the insides and the legs with water, and burned them upon the altar, so that the entire ram was consumed before the Lord; it was a burnt offering that pleased the Lord very much, for Jehovah’s directions to Moses were followed in every detail. Leviticus 8:21

Observation: In chapter 8, Moses performs the sacrifices required to consecrate Aaron and his sons as priests. Before he begins, he announces he is doing what was instructed by the Lord, and when he is done he again announces that was he has done was instructed by the Lord. At the conclusion of sacrifice of each of the two rams, it is declared that what has been done pleases the Lord, for the Lord's instructions had been followed. Finally, when the act of staying at the entrance of the tabernacle is Aaron's to do, not Moses', he warns Aaron to follow the instructions.

In total, over 36 verses, a statement that Moses performed exactly as the Lord commanded/instructed occurs seven times, plus the warning to Aaron to do the same. It is clearly important not only that Aaron be consecrated, but that the instructions of the Lord or obeyed. The Lord told Moses what to do, and it is likely less important what Moses did, than the fact that he did it as instructed.

Application: Obediently showing up to do God's work is likely more important than the actual work to be done. This is why doing even small behind-the-scenes acts of service is important in God's kingdom ... because following the Lord's instruction shows my true heart.

It matters "how" we do Alpha tonight, but the most important part is showing up to serve in the first place. Without that, the Lord can't have me participate in his work.

Prayer: Lord, may I remember to always show up when called. May I seek to follow and obey your instructions, no matter the task or activity. Amen.