All those chosen as gatekeepers were two hundred and twelve. They were recorded by their genealogy, in their villages. David and Samuel the seer had appointed them to their trusted office. For in this trusted office were four chief gatekeepers; they were Levites. And they had charge over the chambers and treasuries of the house of God.
--1 Chronicles 9:22,26 (NKJV)
From the daily Bible reading on July 9, 2013 of Psalm 119:49-56; Philippians 3-4:1; 1 Chronicles 9-10.
After going through all the sons of Jacob and their descendants the genealogies of Israel end. But the lists continue, although they are somewhat more specialized in nature. Chapter 9 of the first book of the Chronicles of the kings begins with some of the inhabitants of Jerusalem by their house of Jacob and by individuals. The priests were listed by name and by familial relationship, as were the Levites, those separated for and dedicated to serving God. Headcounts are given, such as the sons of Benjamin numbering 956 men, all mentioned as being "heads of a father's house in their fathers' houses", which would be highly placed positions within the community. Perhaps more interesting is the number of priests, given as 1760 (nearly twice as many priests as those descended from Benjamin) and again recognized as being heads of their fathers' houses. But the priests were also noted as being "very able men" for their work serving God and their number included Azariah who had the very responsible position of being the officer over the house of God, the Temple itself. All of these men are shown in a very positive light for their exalted positions, their abilities, and their service.
Some of the more prominent Levites are listed next, including those named as gatekeepers of the tabernacle. The previous assignments of some are given along with how their fathers had served. Today's first focus verse tells us that only 212 men of the house of Levi were chosen to serve as gatekeepers, yet it is easy to see that our author placed much emphasis on this position. The first indication is the amount of space provided for their description, about 23 verses. Next is that our author calls their job a "trusted office", not once but twice, denoting the importance of the position. And finally we are told that each one of the gatekeepers had been specially appointed by King David and the holy man Samuel. It is obvious this was considered a critical position, available by appointment only, and the second of our focus verses provides a clue as to maybe why: they had charge over all the rooms and the treasury of the Temple. Only very responsible men could be named to this trusted office.
Each of us have been appointed to fill some trusted office. Our appointment comes not from any man or earthly king, but from Jesus, the King of kings. Each of us has a position to fill, a role to play in the advancement of God's kingdom, and our Father has already equipped us to do that job. It is up to us to figure out what our particular calling is and then to accept the appointment. Be responsible and serve. And some day you will be welcomed to paradise with the words, "Well done, good and faithful servant." Amen.
Father God, You have something very specific in Your grand plan for each of us to do. You have given us everything we need to do the job well. Jesus, we humbly accept the appointment You have assigned us. We only ask for greater clarity and discernment into Your will for us, a clearer job description of what You would have us do. In the holy name of Jesus Christ we pray. Amen.
Some of the more prominent Levites are listed next, including those named as gatekeepers of the tabernacle. The previous assignments of some are given along with how their fathers had served. Today's first focus verse tells us that only 212 men of the house of Levi were chosen to serve as gatekeepers, yet it is easy to see that our author placed much emphasis on this position. The first indication is the amount of space provided for their description, about 23 verses. Next is that our author calls their job a "trusted office", not once but twice, denoting the importance of the position. And finally we are told that each one of the gatekeepers had been specially appointed by King David and the holy man Samuel. It is obvious this was considered a critical position, available by appointment only, and the second of our focus verses provides a clue as to maybe why: they had charge over all the rooms and the treasury of the Temple. Only very responsible men could be named to this trusted office.
Each of us have been appointed to fill some trusted office. Our appointment comes not from any man or earthly king, but from Jesus, the King of kings. Each of us has a position to fill, a role to play in the advancement of God's kingdom, and our Father has already equipped us to do that job. It is up to us to figure out what our particular calling is and then to accept the appointment. Be responsible and serve. And some day you will be welcomed to paradise with the words, "Well done, good and faithful servant." Amen.
Father God, You have something very specific in Your grand plan for each of us to do. You have given us everything we need to do the job well. Jesus, we humbly accept the appointment You have assigned us. We only ask for greater clarity and discernment into Your will for us, a clearer job description of what You would have us do. In the holy name of Jesus Christ we pray. Amen.
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