But the Levites were not registered with them by their ancestral tribe. For the Lord had told Moses, “Do not register or take a census of the tribe of Levi with the other Israelites. Appoint the Levites over the tabernacle of the testimony, all its furnishings, and everything in it. They are to transport the tabernacle and all its articles, take care of it, and camp around it.” ~Numbers 1:47–50
When was the last time you curled up on your favorite easy chair with the telephone directory? It’s probably been quite a while. They don’t still print those huge books, do they? Today’s reading appears to be about as captivating an experience.
It was time for the census, counting the children of Israel. God had asked Moses to select one person from each tribe to help him do the tallying, which he did. But at the end of the first chapter (see v. 49), the Lord asked Moses not to count Levi’s family. He told Moses that this family was set apart for a sacred responsibility. The Levites were to take care of the tabernacle—the Israelites’ house of worship. And they were to conduct the official ceremonies that brought the people into the presence of the Almighty to worship corporately. So they were not even to be counted. They’re that extraordinary.
Although in your home you are to be the priest—just like in Jewish homes around the world—there is something special about the professional in ministry. These are people who have been uniquely called by God to take care of the local church, to provide leadership for corporate worship, to lead adults and children in the ways of the Lord, and to set an example of godly living. This is a challenging, and at times, troublesome—even lonely—occupation.
Unfortunately, sometimes Hollywood portrays these special people as out-of-touch buffoons, giving the wrong impression of what constitutes a ministry calling. There are even tragic examples of folks in this profession falling prey to corruption and failure. Fortunately, right there in your community, there are wonderful examples of what ministry should look like—men and women who faithfully tend to the needs of families like yours.
Most of what children learn will be caught, not taught. Because this is true, you need to attend and take your children to your local church’s gatherings every week. Let them catch your love for these people. Let them hear you speak of your support for the minister and his associates. Let them witness your generosity through your giving. Let your children or stepchildren or grandchildren overhear you expressing appreciation for the positive impact your church has in your life.
We are blessed with people who are called by God to vocational ministry. These are our shepherds. What a good idea it is to lead your family with your faithful prayers and support of them.