February 11

In Exodus 28-31, God provides Moses with instructions for the priesthood, the construction of the Tabernacle, and the Sabbath. The detailed descriptions of the priests’ garments and their consecration show that serving God is a sacred calling requiring preparation and reverence. The high priest bore the names of Israel’s tribes on his garments as a reminder that he represented the people before God. Additionally, the anointing of the Tabernacle and the emphasis on the Sabbath highlight the holiness of worship and rest in God’s presence. These chapters remind us that our service to God must come from a heart of devotion, holiness, and obedience.  

Philippians 2 points us to Jesus as the ultimate example of humility and servanthood. Paul writes, “Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus” (Philippians 2:5). Jesus, though fully God, emptied Himself, taking the form of a servant and humbling Himself to the point of death on a cross. Because of His obedience, God exalted Him, giving Him the name above all names. This passage calls us to follow Christ’s example, living selflessly and placing the needs of others above our own. Paul also encourages believers to “work out your salvation with fear and trembling” (Philippians 2:12), emphasizing that our obedience flows from God’s work in us.

Both passages teach us about the balance of serving God with reverence and humility. The priests in Exodus served as mediators between God and His people, pointing forward to Jesus, our ultimate High Priest (Hebrews 4:14-16). Through His sacrifice, we are now invited into God’s presence, not by our works, but by His grace. In response, we are called to serve Him with hearts surrendered to His will, reflecting the humility of Christ in our actions and attitudes.  

Serving God is not about self-glorification but about worshiping Him and honoring others. Whether we are leading, helping, or simply being present in our communities, we are called to mirror Christ’s humility and love. Just as the priests were set apart for service, we too are called to be a “royal priesthood” (1 Peter 2:9), representing God to the world and living lives that glorify Him.  

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