Leviticus 8 - Self Surrender

In a culture that promotes self and fights for rights, this chapter may be offensive to some. After receiving instructions regarding the sacrifices, Aaron is ordained to serve the remainder of his life offering sacrifices for himself, and for the nation of Israel. Not just himself but all his descendants would be commisioned for service. There was no asking if he might desire this position. I am sure there were a thousand more pleasant assignments, but day after day Aaron would have the constant reminder that sin yields death as he sacrificed animals at the altar. He willing service is a model for all God's people to follow. Aaron would no longer live his life for himself but for God's pleasure. 

We are given glimpses of the self surrendered life when we marry and commit ourselves to honor and serve someone other than ourselves. Christ likens the bond of husband and wife to his relationship to the church, willingly giving himself up for her (Eph. 6:25). The husband laying down his life for his wife and the wife yielding herself to his headship. We don't see that a lot, but it is God's design and one we should strive to follow. 

Other examples of self submission include parenting. Where the parent places self life on hold for the benefit of the children. Servicemen and women offer their lives in service to their country; giving up the joys of family closeness and the pleasures of monetary gain to serve their nation even to the point of death if necessary. 

If we adopted self submission as our model, we would turn our backs on the sins that dominate us and serve not only God but our fellow man. As it says in Philippians 2:4,"each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others."  Imagine how different our world would be. I think there would be a lot more fellowship with God, but also with fellow man. Less need for TV, internet, games, alcohol and drugs as we no longer would need to escape the realities of life but could enjoy them. 

Jesus modeled self submission for us when he prayed, "not my will, but thine be done". When our focus is removed from self we are free to live and love more abundantly and we can enjoy the fellowship of God. Self focus keeps us from loving a God and impacting our world. 

In humility and love, Aaron offered his service to God bridging the gap between God and sinners. Who knows what God might do with your life surrendered to Him?

May God richly bless you as you seek Him and as you serve Him.