The Character of the LORD God Exodus 34.4-7 How would you describe God? If someone asked you, “What is God like?” What would you tell them? We are given a description here by Moses, who knew Him better than anyone on Earth at this point. He gives us a detailed description of the LORD. We’re thinking about how small we are when we need to be thinking about how great God is! It is interesting to hear people describe us. Some have described me as a jolly soul, a teddy bear… others well… If you want the truth ask my grandkids… or my niece, Marlee, “Uncle Larry, your belly is like a nice soft pillow.” Moses talks about God. It is based on his experience. God inspired. As he held the chiseled tablets with the Law, the Ten Commandments, or if you are a scholar, The Decalogue… God revealed Himself to Moses and in writing it down to Israel and us. * Compassion Merciful While many view God as a harsh Judge He delights to show mercy. Psalm 103.13-14 As a father has compassion on his children, so the LORD has compassion on those who fear Him; for He knows how we are formed, He remembers that we are dust. My daughters are fine young (although they say, “Dad, I am getting old). They are good Moms. I never had to go to court or bail them out because they committed crimes. I have seen them put their kids first. I have seen them tired. It is not easy raising kids these days. I pray for them each day. I used to babysit the grandkids. I offered them nights out with their husbands with free babysitting. They took me up on it. I love the time I watched 5 of them (2 of their cousins). My daughter, her husband and her brother-in-law and his wife pulled up to her house. It was quiet with only one light on. Her brother-in-law comes from a country where the kids stay up very late. He was concerned that something happened. They walked in. I was reading. They asked about the kids and I said, “They are all sleeping.” They could not believe it. They were especially surprised about their son. He was tired. I let him sit next to me and he went out. Many times my brother and I fell asleep in the car when we were young. My parents would wake us and help get us in the house. I have compassion on them. God sees your work. He sees when you choose to do what is right, He hears your prayers. He sees your concern for others. He loves you deeply. Hebrews 6. 10 God is not unjust; He will not forget your work and the love you have shown Him as you have helped His people and continue to help them. Tony, Jeff, Nancy and William work the food ministry in all kinds of weather. Have tender affection God has this for you. This is a family thing as well. There are those in my family whom I would like to help. They are often the ones with young children. Young children require a lot of care and attention. It can be joyful and exhausting at the same time. Two mothers with young children with the toilet paper pulled all out. “I wanted to see how long it was.” First mother scolding, crying. Second mother, “You know I was always wondering about that too.” She and her child go throughout the house stringing it up, laughing * Grace Show favor One of the things kids say to their parents to get to them is, “You love them (speaking about their brothers or sisters) more!” Tommy Smothers made a fortune on that one line, “Mom loved you best.” My brother said to my parents one time, “You must be more pleased with Larry because he is a pastor.” My parents corrected him. I love taking my grandkids out to eat. I tell them to get whatever they want. I tell them to get dessert first. They all know I love them. Pity When my girls have had their hearts broken or when someone was mean to them I came to the rescue. One time my oldest daughter told me this kid on her bus kept knocking her books out of her hands. She would come home crying in tears. Now I know that sometimes boys get frustrated when they like a girl and she doesn’t return attention. So they call attention to themselves by acting like a jerk. I had enough. This kid’s father ran a business which I used frequently so I told my daughter to get in the car with me and off we went. I can still see this poor kid’s face when we walked in the door. He said my daughter’s name in disbelief. He knew what I was going to do. I told his father what was happening. He said his son’s name several times. We left. Problem solved! As a father I had pity on her. Our Father in Heaven does the same. He comes to our rescue. He troubles those who trouble us. * Slow To Anger Patient Thankfully the LORD has enabled me to obtain this quality. As my youngest daughter said, “My Dad is a very patient man. Just do not back him into a corner or you will be sorry.” God does not treat us as our sins deserve. Psalm 103. 10 He does not treat us as our sins deserve or repay us according to our iniquities. 11 For as high as the heavens are above the earth, so great is His love for those who fear Him; 12 as far as the east is from the west, so far has He removed our transgressions from us. My Dad and the Hot Tub * Abounding in Love Great goodness, kindness, faithfulness God is good. Look at how He takes care of this Earth and its creatures! Psalm 104. 10 He makes springs pour water into the ravines; it flows between the mountains. 11 They give water to all the beasts of the field; the wild donkeys quench their thirst. 12 The birds of the sky nest by the waters; they sing among the branches. 13 He waters the mountains from His upper chambers; the land is satisfied by the fruit of His work. 14 He makes grass grow for the cattle, and plants for people to cultivate— bringing forth food from the earth: 15 wine that gladdens human hearts, oil to make their faces shine, and bread that sustains their hearts. 16 The trees of the LORD are well watered, the cedars of Lebanon that He planted. 17 There the birds make their nests; the stork has its home in the junipers. 18 The high mountains belong to the wild goats; the crags are a refuge for the hyrax. 27 All creatures look to You to give them their food at the proper time. 28 When You give it to them, they gather it up; when You open Your hand, they are satisfied with good things. Thy loving kindness is better than life. The LORD is faithful to all His Promises and loving to all He has made. * Abounding In Faithfulness Firmness Malachi 3. 6 For I am the LORD, I change not; therefore ye sons of Jacob are not consumed. Jesus Christ, the same, yesterday, today and forever. Reliability Depend upon it. God’s work done in God’s way will never lack God’s supply. He will meet all your needs. He will never leave you nor forsake you. He will watch over your life. Whatever need you have brought this morning, our God desires to meet it. * Forgiveness * * For Wickedness * Rebellion * Sin This brings us to His Table. To do what He directed us to do. To recognize His Body, His Blood. All that we talked about this morning is summed up in this. Jesus Christ laid down His life for us. His body was beaten,was mutilated. His blood flowed for you and I. The punishment that bought us peace was upon Him. Come to the Table. David Solo

The Character of the LORD God Exodus 34.4-7 How would you describe God? If someone asked you, “What is God like?” What would you tell them? We are given a description here by Moses, who knew Him better than anyone on Earth at this point. He gives us a detailed description of the LORD. We’re thinking about how small we are when we need to be thinking about how great God is! It is interesting to hear people describe us. Some have described me as a jolly soul, a teddy bear… others well… If you want the truth ask my grandkids… or my niece, Marlee, “Uncle Larry, your belly is like a nice soft pillow.” Moses talks about God. It is based on his experience. God inspired. As he held the chiseled tablets with the Law, the Ten Commandments, or if you are a scholar, The Decalogue… God revealed Himself to Moses and in writing it down to Israel and us. * Compassion Merciful While many view God as a harsh Judge He delights to show mercy. Psalm 103.13-14 As a father has compassion on his children,     so the LORD has compassion on those who fear Him; for He knows how we are formed, He remembers that we are dust. My daughters are fine young (although they say, “Dad, I am getting old). They are good Moms. I never had to go to court or bail them out because they committed crimes. I have seen them put their kids first. I have seen them tired. It is not easy raising kids these days. I pray for them each day. I used to babysit the grandkids. I offered them nights out with their husbands with free babysitting. They took me up on it. I love the time I watched 5 of them (2 of their cousins). My daughter, her husband and her brother-in-law and his wife pulled up to her house. It was quiet with only one light on. Her brother-in-law comes from a country where the kids stay up very late. He was concerned that something happened. They walked in. I was reading. They asked about the kids and I said, “They are all sleeping.” They could not believe it. They were especially surprised about their son. He was tired. I let him sit next to me and he went out. Many times my brother and I fell asleep in the car when we were young. My parents would wake us and help get us in the house. I have compassion on them. God sees your work. He sees when you choose to do what is right, He hears your prayers. He sees your concern for others. He loves you deeply. Hebrews 6. 10 God is not unjust; He will not forget your work and the love you have shown Him as you have helped His people and continue to help them. Tony, Jeff, Nancy and William work the food ministry in all kinds of weather. Have tender affection God has this for you. This is a family thing as well. There are those in my family whom I would like to help. They are often the ones with young children. Young children require a lot of care and attention. It can be joyful and exhausting at the same time. Two mothers with young children with the toilet paper pulled all out. “I wanted to see how long it was.” First mother scolding, crying. Second mother, “You know I was always wondering about that too.” She and her child go throughout the house stringing it up, laughing * Grace Show favor One of the things kids say to their parents to get to them is, “You love them (speaking about their brothers or sisters) more!” Tommy Smothers made a fortune on that one line, “Mom loved you best.” My brother said to my parents one time, “You must be more pleased with Larry because he is a pastor.” My parents corrected him. I love taking my grandkids out to eat. I tell them to get whatever they want. I tell them to get dessert first. They all know I love them. Pity When my girls have had their hearts broken or when someone was mean to them I came to the rescue. One time my oldest daughter told me this kid on her bus kept knocking her books out of her hands. She would come home crying in tears. Now I know that sometimes boys get frustrated when they like a girl and she doesn’t return attention. So they call attention to themselves by acting like a jerk. I had enough. This kid’s father ran a business which I used frequently so I told my daughter to get in the car with me and off we went. I can still see this poor kid’s face when we walked in the door. He said my daughter’s name in disbelief. He knew what I was going to do. I told his father what was happening. He said his son’s name several times. We left. Problem solved! As a father I had pity on her. Our Father in Heaven does the same. He comes to our rescue. He troubles those who trouble us. * Slow To Anger Patient Thankfully the LORD has enabled me to obtain this quality. As my youngest daughter said, “My Dad is a very patient man. Just do not back him into a corner or you will be sorry.” God does not treat us as our sins deserve. Psalm 103. 10  He does not treat us as our sins deserve     or repay us according to our iniquities. 11 For as high as the heavens are above the earth,     so great is His love for those who fear Him; 12 as far as the east is from the west,     so far has He removed our transgressions from us. My Dad and the Hot Tub * Abounding in Love Great goodness, kindness, faithfulness God is good. Look at how He takes care of this Earth and its creatures! Psalm 104. 10  He makes springs pour water into the ravines;     it flows between the mountains. 11  They give water to all the beasts of the field;     the wild donkeys quench their thirst. 12  The birds of the sky nest by the waters;     they sing among the branches. 13  He waters the mountains from His upper chambers;     the land is satisfied by the fruit of His work. 14  He makes grass grow for the cattle,     and plants for people to cultivate—     bringing forth food from the earth: 15  wine that gladdens human hearts,     oil to make their faces shine,     and bread that sustains their hearts. 16  The trees of the LORD are well watered,     the cedars of Lebanon that He planted. 17  There the birds make their nests;     the stork has its home in the junipers. 18  The high mountains belong to the wild goats;     the crags are a refuge for the hyrax. 27  All creatures look to You     to give them their food at the proper time. 28  When You give it to them,     they gather it up; when You open Your hand,     they are satisfied with good things. Thy loving kindness is better than life. The LORD is faithful to all His Promises and loving to all He has made. * Abounding In Faithfulness Firmness Malachi 3. 6 For I am the LORD, I change not; therefore ye sons of Jacob are not consumed. Jesus Christ, the same, yesterday, today and forever. Reliability Depend upon it. God’s work done in God’s way will never lack God’s supply. He will meet all your needs. He will never leave you nor forsake you. He will watch over your life. Whatever need you have brought this morning, our God desires to meet it. * Forgiveness * * For Wickedness * Rebellion * Sin This brings us to His Table. To do what He directed us to do. To recognize His Body, His Blood. All that we talked about this morning is summed up in this. Jesus Christ laid down His life for us. His body was beaten,was mutilated. His blood flowed for you and I. The punishment that bought us peace was upon Him. Come to the Table. David Solo

If Jesus Goes With Me, I Will Go Anywhere

Exodus 33.12-23 God was testing Moses. He told him to go but He would not go with him. He was going to send an Angel. Moses was not a man who would volunteer for such a task. Go without God? That would be disastrous. He asked the LORD when told to go to Pharaoh, “Whom shall I say sent me?” Because Moses had a speech problem, God sent Moses his brother, Aaron to be his mouthpiece. He knew firsthand that he would not be free from Egyptian Bondage without God making it so. He knew firsthand Who fought for them in the Red Sea battle. He knew the people were led by God, Fed by Him every morning with Manna. How I long for the Church in America to come to this point, their need of God. What a difference that would make! Upper Room over Supper Room Without God they would perish. * We never find this in the New Testament. What we do find is Paul writing about his challenges: II Corinthians 1. 8 We do not want you to be uninformed, brothers about the troubles we experienced in the province of Asia. We were under great pressure, far beyond our ability to endure, so that we despaired of life itself. 9 Indeed, we felt we had received the sentence of death. But this happened that we might not rely on ourselves but on God, Who raises the dead. 10 He has delivered us from such a deadly peril, and He will deliver us again. On Him we have set our hope that He will continue to deliver us, 11 as you help us by your prayers. Then many will give thanks on our behalf for the gracious favor granted us in answer to the prayers of many. (Intercessory Prayers) Jesus said that He would never leave us nor forsake us. He also told us that in this world we would have trouble. We can depend on this. Peter addresses this suffering. He tells us not to think that when we go through it something strange or unusual is happening to us. We are getting answers to prayers to be more like Jesus. When I started on the cross country team in 1971 we began running in the heat of August. The Coach let us go into the streets to run. He was the first in the country to do this. Now it is commonplace. He learned this from the Kenyans. We would see kids heading to the beach, kids on bikes, people walking, hearing kids jump into backyard pools, ice cream trucks going by. Then we would come by them, all sweating… the last 10 days of summer were cut short and filled with strenuous running. It seemed all we did in those days was run, shower, eat and sleep. Two practices a day, running to the practices then home. It was easy to see the other kids hanging out, having fun. We were suffering. They were not. Coach would be there when we got back, encourage us, laugh with us. Telling us after the morning practice, “Go home, swim in the pool, have lunch, take a nap… see you back here at 4.” We knew we would see him at the end. He would also be yelling while we were running. , “You are getting stronger and stronger!” May we hear that word from Jesus today! . * It is obviously as we look back on it now a test. He said this only to test him for He already had in mind what He was going to do. It was not for Moses. He could not imagined it. Moses knew where his strength was. He would not go without God. This was a little like the Road To Emmaus Luke 24. 28 As they approached the village to which they were going, Jesus continued on His way as if He were going farther. Sometimes He does that so we will call on Him, urge Him. David thought of this possibility and he prayed in Psalm 51. 11 Do not cast me from Your presence or take your Holy Spirit from me. The very thought of that brings the anointed to shake. I have watched men who lost the anointing. It is not a pretty sight. They can talk but not speak with authority. I have also watched singers, anointed ones, lose that thing that enabled them to touch hearts. It sends chills up and down my spine. God help us! As with Samson, the Spirit departs and they do not realize it until after they attempt something for God. They lost the power. * Moses had a desire to become closer to the LORD. This is a good thing. What we do not realize is that it can result in pain. Jesus, for the joy set before Him, endured the cross. Philippians 3. 10 I want to know Christ—yes, to know the power of His resurrection and participation in His sufferings, becoming like Him in His death, 11 and so, somehow, attaining to the resurrection from the dead. There ought to be a deep desire to get close to Jesus, so close we become like Him. I have one deep supreme desire, that I may be like Jesus. To this I fervently aspire, that I may be like Jesus. I want my heart His throne to be  so that a watching world may see His likeness shining forth in me.  I want to be like Jesus. 2.     He spent His life in doing good;  I want to be like Jesus. In lowly paths of service trod;  I want to be like Jesus. He sympathized with hearts distressed,  He spoke the words that cheered and blessed; He welcomed sinners to His breast.  I want to be like Jesus. 3.     A holy, harmless life He led;  I want to be like Jesus. The Father's will, His drink and bread,  I want to be like Jesus. And when at last He comes to die,  "Forgive them, Father" Hear Him cry For those who taunt and crucify. I want to be like Jesus. 4.     O perfect life of Christ, my Lord!  I want to be like Jesus. My recompense and my reward,  That I may be like Jesus. His Spirit fill my hungering soul,  His power all my life control; My deepest prayer, my highest goal,  That I may be like Jesus. Oh To Be Like Thee! Goodness is its own reward. * God rewarded his desire with a wonderful experience. This didn’t come off the top of his head. This came through deep struggle with man and God. Just look at his history. Some have divided Moses life into three 40 year periods, 40 being a number of Judgment. First 40 in Pharaoh’s Palace Next 40 on the backside of a desert Last 40 in the wilderness leading the children of Israel to the Promised Land Hebrews 11. 23 By faith Moses’ parents hid him for three months after he was born, because they saw he was no ordinary child, and they were not afraid of the king’s edict. 24 By faith Moses, when he had grown up, refused to be known as the son of Pharaoh’s daughter. 25 He chose to be mistreated along with the people of God rather than to enjoy the fleeting pleasures of sin. 26 He regarded disgrace for the sake of Christ as of greater value than the treasures of Egypt, because he was looking ahead to his reward. 27 By faith he left Egypt, not fearing the king’s anger; he persevered because he saw Him Who is invisible. 28 By faith he kept the Passover and the application of blood, so that the destroyerof the firstborn would not touch the firstborn of Israel. 29 By faith the people passed through the Red Sea as on dry land; but when the Egyptians tried to do so, they were drowned. Exodus can be divided up into three parts. Chapters 1-18 The Exodus out of Egypt Chapters 19-24 The Law Given Chapters 25-40 The Tabernacle Plans and Construction At Sinai he got to see the LORD pass by. Think with me about the Mount of Transfiguration Mark 9 Moses was there. I wonder if Moses asked Jesus about the disciples They spoke of His departure (His Exodus) Luke 9. 30 Two men, Moses and Elijah, appeared in glorious splendor, talking with Jesus. 31 They spoke about His departure, which He was about to bring to fulfillment at Jerusalem. II Corinthians 3. 18 And we all, who with unveiled faces contemplate/ reflect the LORD’s glory, are being transformed into His image with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the LORD, Who is the Spirit. On Mount Nebo God buried him. He was with Elijah talking with Jesus! Let’s keep talking about Jesus as we go through Exodus Let’s keep following Jesus. Anywhere He leads

Moses, The Intercessor

Moses, The Intercessor Exodus 32.1-14 Moses was faithful in all of God’s house. Hebrews 3.5 Moses was the meekest man on earth. Numbers 12.3 He was also an intercessor. He is responsible for standing in the gap and convincing the LORD not to wipe out Israel. He was concerned about the LORD’s reputation and honor. Throughout the Bible there are a variety of examples of intercessory prayer, but one that stands out among them is the story of Moses. Moses is seen throughout Exodus as an intercessor, taking the needs of his people before God, asking God to change His plan to destroy them. What brought Israel to this place of needing this intercessory prayer? * Impatience is never good spiritually vs.1-2 It always leads to evil and foolishness Be aware of it. Do not give into it. You will regret it. Proverbs 19. 2  Desire without knowledge is not good—
    how much more will hasty feet miss the way! Notice there is no record of Aaron consulting the elders. He did not take time to think. He did not pray. He acted impulsively to please the people. He almost wiped out the whole nation by his quick and wrong response. People pleasing is not good. Learn to wait for the LORD. Find godly counsel. Place your hope in Him * Weak Leaders make bad decisions vs.3-4 Spiritual Leaders Must Be Strong This is a quality that is non negotiable when it comes to choosing a leader. They must know their strength is from the LORD. Moses did. Aaron failed. Ephesians 6. 10 Finally, be strong in the LORD and in His mighty power. 11 Put on the full armor of God,so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. 12 For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. I heard of Pastors who brazenly said that they only read the Scriptures when preparing for a sermon. Bad choice. No wonder they failed! They were not taking time to feed themselves, to watch over themselves. Acts 20. 28 Keep watch over yourselves and all the flock of which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers. Be shepherds of the church of God, which He bought with His own blood. Keep watch over yourselves… a former Pastor I knew, who did not do this fell into a trap of making money, lots of it. He soon was paying more attention to his accumulation of wealth, to the Stock Market, than he was his own soul and he was out. He lost his way. It is noteworthy to see that Aaron had them bring their gold. 2 Aaron answered them, “Take off the gold earrings that your wives, your sons and your daughters are wearing, and bring them to me.”3 So all the people took off their earrings and brought them to Aaron. He involved the children. You cannot serve both God and money. God or gold. * Spiritual Leaders Must Stand Alone At Times Aaron should have led the people in waiting. He would have had to do this alone. I can tell you from experience that it is not a pleasant experience. It is interesting that my parents moved in 1973 to a place where they had found a church with a large youth group for my brother and I. My memories are not of sweet fellowship but two years of contending for the faith. Mercy! There was a lot of immaturity in that group. My parents thought, “This will be good. They will have a lot of Christian friends.” Many of those kids headed down the wrong path. Many shipwrecked their faith. Some have died of alcoholism. It is not over yet, sad to say. Some who opposed Christ have repented and come to Him but they are in the minority. I remember running after kids, confronting others. I did not know at the time but the LORD was preparing me for my life’s work. To this day there are some advocating things against the LORD and His Word. I remember times of repentance, when I cried, as kids I prayed for, surrendered to Jesus. I remember the loneliness I felt as I stood for what was right. * Spiritual Leaders Cannot Please The Crowds. Pilate tried Elijah stood alone and got depressed. He believed he was all alone. I Kings 19.3 Elijah was afraid and ran for his life. When he came to Beersheba in Judah, he left his servant there, 4 while he himself went a day’s journey into the wilderness. He came to a broom bush, sat down under it and prayed that he might die. “I have had enough, LORD,” he said. “Take my life; I am no better than my ancestors.” 5 Then he lay down under the bush and fell asleep. 9 And the word of the LORD came to him: “What are you doing here, Elijah?” 10 He replied, “I have been very zealous for the LORD God Almighty. The Israelites have rejected Your covenant, torn down Your altars, and put Your prophets to death with the sword. I am the only one left, and now they are trying to kill me too.” 18 Yet I reserve seven thousand in Israel—all whose knees have not bowed down to Baal and whose mouths have not kissed him.” Depression can come from being alone. It can result in a loss of perspective. It does not necessarily mean you have sinned. Elijah didn’t. Standing alone can drain you and at the same time fill you with strength from the LORD. If God calls you to be a shepherd, you must be ready at times to stand alone. Another question I would ask would be pastors, “Tell me about times in your life when you have had to stand alone.” Whether we are shepherds or not, there will be times when we have to stand alone, against the crowd, against the majority, who Al though they rule, are seldom right! * Mixing Faiths Result In Compromise vs. 5-6 Aaron was violating the first two commandments God has always asked for 100% This is His Holiness Syncretism cannot be embraced. He will not share His Glory with another This is a huge problem today! Accommodating other faiths into ours. I have heard idiots say to young people, “It doesn’t matter what you believe as long as you believe something.” God help us! * Moses’ Conversation with the LORD vs. 7-14 God knows the hearts of all people The LORD’s offer to Moses was rejected by him. vs. 11-13 He was concerned with God’s reputation. We are as well. The LORD Relented He was moved to pity and compassion We can move the Hands of God through prayer. Young Lady on the Brooklyn Bridge yesterday. My prayer before we went. Arts text: It’s was good. A little ambitious,🚶‍♂️ 🚶‍♂️ perhaps, 😂 but fun. I haven’t seen anything about the bridge jumper so she probably is ok. We saw a LOT yesterday! 😰 “At this very moment someone is dying just next door…” Phineas Bresse What is Intercessory Forgiveness. It is Jesus saying, “Father, forgive them for they do not know what they are doing,” It is praying forgiveness for people who do not ask, on the contrary are currently causing pain. We can only do this through Christ. When we intercede we feel what the people we are feeling feel. We put ourselves in their shoes Be an intercessor

The Sacred Anointing Oil

The Sacred Anointing Oil Exodus 30.22-33 Consecration Set aside Items People Aaron and his sons for generations forever Sacred for the sacred * The Items: The Tent of the Meeting- where all the sacred activities took place under The Ark of the Testimony- containing the Two Tablets, Manna, Aaron’s Rod The Table which contained 12 loaves of the Bread of the Presence The Lamp Stands remained lit all the time The utensils and accessories * The People: Aaron, the brother of Moses, the first High Priest Aaron was being set apart for God’s service. His life was not his own. He would serve the LORD. He was the go between for God and the Israelites. He would go into the Most Holy Place once a year on Yom Kippur, the Day of Atonement, celebrated by the Jewish people around the world a week from tomorrow. Hebrews 5.1 Every high priest is selected from among the people and is appointed to represent the people in matters related to God, to offer gifts and sacrifices for sins. 2 He is able to deal gently with those who are ignorant and are going astray, since he himself is subject to weakness. 3 This is why he has to offer sacrifices for his own sins, as well as for the sins of the people. 4 And no one takes this honor on himself, but he receives it when called by God, just as Aaron was. He would be seen throughout the day, each day, in his garments, carrying the people on his shoulders and his heart, listening to their burdens. This was his work. He and his sons were to be set apart for God’s purposes. The mark of their consecration was the stains the oil made on their garments. The anointing was a public thing. People would see the oil (and smell it) when it was poured out. Psalm 133 A song of ascents. Of David. 1 How good and pleasant it is
    when brothers live together in unity! 2 It is like precious oil poured on the head,
    running down on the beard,
running down on Aaron’s beard,
    down on the collar of his robe. 3 It is as if the dew of Hermon
    were falling on Mount Zion.
For there the LORD bestows His blessing,
    even life forevermore. This oil was not allowed to be used for any other use. verse 33 It was for Aaron and his sons. Family portraits show amazing things. My Dad was an only child. We took a family portrait on his 80th birthday, then one on my Mom’s 80th, 2 1/2 years later. Grandsons had been added to the family. Even more since then. In fact at this current time he has 4 grandsons 10 great grandsons and possibly another soon. One man, 2 sons, 4 grandsons, 10 great grandsons, 16 all together. Numbers 1.1-4 2 years, one month after they left Egypt the census took place. Since Levi went down with his brothers over 400 years ago, only God knows how many they became. They were the only tribe not verses 47-49 They could begin serving at 20 until 50. Then they were put on modified service. Aaron was a Levite. When Aaron’s sons turned 20 something happened to them. They served as priests. This was going on until Jesus’ time, 1,500 years later! Luke 1.5-25 Zechariah and Elizabeth were descendants of Aaron. Zechariah was a priest. He had this special anointing oil poured on on him and his robes. In fact every time a descendant of Aaron reached 20 years of age this oil was brought out and poured over him! He was ordained a priest. The fragrance filled the air and remained on his garments. So there is this similarity with the Spirit. My daughter, Theresa, is more like my Nana than any of her descendants, along with my cousins, Lee. They are quiet and contemplative women. They seldom begin conversations but will respond if you talk to them. I, on the other hand, was told by my Dad that I reminded him of his father, a pastor. God works, not exclusively, through family lines. My son-in-law is an example. My friend, Doctor Mark Weinberg, comes from a family of Doctors as does his wife. Both of their daughters are doctors. What does oil do? Sweetness Lessens Friction Causes things to run smoothly Prevents things from burning up Powers Gives light Fuels Cleans Cools Prevents rust (Stay under the spout where the Glory comes out) Jesus has become our great High Priest. Hebrews 8.1 Now the main point of what we are saying is this: We do have such a high priest, who sat down at the right hand of the throne of the Majesty in heaven, 2 and Who serves in the sanctuary, the true tabernacle set up by the LORD, not by a mere human being. 3 Every high priest is appointed to offer both gifts and sacrifices, and so it was necessary for this one also to have something to offer. 4 If He were on earth, He would not be a priest, for there are already priests who offer the gifts prescribed by the law. 5 They serve at a sanctuary that is a copy and shadow of what is in heaven. This is why Moses was warned when he was about to build the tabernacle: “See to it that you make everything according to the pattern shown you on the mountain.” 6 But in fact the ministry Jesus has received is as superior to theirs as the covenant of which He is mediator is superior to the old one, since the new covenant is established on better promises. Jesus was anointed. Matthew 3. 13 Then Jesus came from Galilee to the Jordan to be baptized by John. 14 But John tried to deter Him, saying, “I need to be baptized by You, and do You come to me?” 15 Jesus replied, “Let it be so now; it is proper for us to do this to fulfill all righteousness.”Then John consented. 16 As soon as Jesus was baptized, He went up out of the water. At that moment heaven was opened, and He saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and alighting on Him.17 And a voice from heaven said, “This is my Son, whom I love; with Him I am well pleased.” The Holy Spirit descending on Him in the form of a dove was His anointing.. He also read in Nazareth, 18 “The Spirit of the LORD is on Me,
    because He has anointed me
    to proclaim good news to the poor.
He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners
    and recovery of sight for the blind,
to set the oppressed free, 19      to proclaim the year of the LORD’s favor. 20 Then He rolled up the scroll, gave it back to the attendant and sat down. The eyes of everyone in the synagogue were fastened on Him. 21 He began by saying to them, “Today this scripture is fulfilled in your hearing.” Luke 4 His anointing was from above, of the Spirit. John writes in I John 2.20 But you have an anointing from the Holy One, and all of you know the truth.” I Peter 2. 4 As you come to Him, the living Stone—rejected by humans but chosen by God and precious to Him— 5 you also, like living stones, are being built into a spiritual house to be a holy priesthood, offering spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ. The precious oil has been poured out on us, the Baptism of the Holy Spirit. We are priests in God’s House. That is why we intercede for people. We offer up praise. We bring sacrifices. Our lives are all for Him. I Peter 2. 9 But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light. Jesus is our Great High Priest. Martin Luther talked about this verse and called it, “The Priesthood of all Believers.” We serve as priests as we intercede for others. The Holy Spirit helps us. Jesus listens Pleads our case before the Father. This is the Holy Spirit. You received the Holy Spirit when you believed. He takes up residence within. You have been born of the Spirit, born from above. As you walk with the LORD you find you need more of God. Then in a call to God you ask Him for the fullness of His Spirit. When my Nana knelt in her apartment in Brooklyn back in the 1930’s she asked for this, although she didn’t know anything about it. She knew God had answered her prayer. Then shortly after she heard a pastor on the radio proclaim this truth, this anointing and she said, “That is what God did for me!” I didn’t know what to call it. We sense the anointing within. Our spirit moves. We honor Christ. There are mockers and there are worshippers. One anointing, many fresh infillings Are you in need of a brand new touch?

The Dignity And Honor Of The High Priest

The Dignity And Honor Of The High Priest Exodus 28.1-21 Dignity= glory, honour,, abundance Honor= beauty, splendour, glory The High Priest was to have these things on the sacred garment. His clothing spoke of spiritual things, things of Heaven and Earth. They foreshadowed Jesus. Photo of High Priest Jesus has become our Great High Priest. Hebrews 8.1 Now the main point of what we are saying is this: We do have such a high priest, Who sat down at the right hand of the throne of the Majesty in heaven, 2 and Who serves in the sanctuary, the true tabernacle set up by the LORD, not by a mere human being. 3 Every high priest is appointed to offer both gifts and sacrifices, and so it was necessary for this one also to have something to offer. 4 If He were on earth, He would not be a priest, for there are already priests who offer the gifts prescribed by the law. 5 They serve at a sanctuary that is a copy and shadow of what is in heaven. This is why Moses was warned when he was about to build the tabernacle: “See to it that you make everything according to the pattern shown you on the mountain.” 6 But in fact the ministry Jesus has received is as superior to theirs as the covenant of which He is mediator is superior to the old one, since the new covenant is established on better promises. The dignity of Jesus is seen in His humble life, His loving treatment of all people, and His Divine Authority. He showed honor and worth to the broken and the poor, the defiled and demon possessed, defining true Majesty through service rather than earthly power. Rather He had power over disease, demons and death. Being the High Priest was an honor to a chosen few. It was also a very humbling experience. Colossians 2.17 These are a shadow of the things that were to come; the reality, however, is found in Christ. Jesus as our Great High Priest is an honor that is His alone. We honor Him. He experienced humility beyond measure. * The High Priest Carried the people on His heart and Shouldered Their Burdens. We see this in the onyx stones and the breastplate. vs.9-12, 15-21 He was available during the day in the Temple Courts to listen to the people’s requests. He would walk through the courts of the Temple. His residence was in sight of the temple. The High Priest carried out some duties of the shepherd/pastor. A shepherd who does not carry the people on his heart and shoulder their burdens is not a true shepherd. For this is part of shepherd’s work. Jesus is the Good Shepherd, the Great Shepherd of the sheep. He is our Great High Priest. He is King of kings and LORD of lords. He is the Chief Shepherd. I Peter 5.1 To the elders among you, I appeal as a fellow elder and a witness of Christ’s sufferings who also will share in the glory to be revealed: 2 Be shepherds of God’s flock that is under your care, watching over them—not because you must, but because you are willing, as God wants you to be; not pursuing dishonest gain, but eager to serve; 3 not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock. 4 And when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the crown of glory that will never fade away. The Priestly work of sacrifice and being a mediator has been done and is being done by Jesus, our Great High Priest. The Sacrifice of Himself was a one time act. The bearing of our burdens is ongoing until we all get to Heaven. Christ Jesus Who died—more than that, Who was raised to life—is at the right hand of God and is also interceding for us. Romans 8.34 * The High Priest’s Garments Spoke Of His Work Beautiful Stained with oil. He was anointed with very special scented olive oil. This was to show he was set apart for the people. God’s hand was upon Him. Roman’s 8. 26 In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit Himself intercedes for us through wordless groans. 27 And He Who searches our hearts knows the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for God’s people in accordance with the will of God. The High Priest would do his best to help the people. Coach and Miss Adler Jesus Hebrews 4. 14 Therefore, since we have a great high priest Who has ascended into heaven, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold firmly to the faith we profess. 15 For we do not have a high priest who is unable to empathize with our weaknesses, but we have One who has been tempted in every way, just as we are—yet He did not sin. 16 Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need. He serves as the ultimate mediator who bridges the gap between a holy God and humanity Stained with blood The blood of sacrifices he made would be all over his garments. This was from the blood of animals. Hebrews 9. 11 But when Christ came as High Priest of the good things that are now already here, He went through the greater and more perfect tabernacle that is not made with human hands,that is to say, is not a part of this creation. 12 He did not enter by means of the blood of goats and calves; but He entered the Most Holy Place once for all by His own blood, thus obtaining eternal redemption. 13 The blood of goats and bulls and the ashes of a heifer sprinkled on those who are ceremonially unclean sanctify them so that they are outwardly clean. 14 How much more, then, will the blood of Christ, Who through the eternal Spirit offered Himself unblemished to God, cleanse our consciencesfrom acts that lead to death, so that we may serve the living God! Think of the Humility of Jesus: Philippians 2. 5 In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus: 6 Who, being in very nature God,
    did not consider equality with God something to be used to His own advantage; 7 rather, He made himself nothing
    by taking the very nature of a servant,
    being made in human likeness. 8 And being found in appearance as a man,
    He humbled Himself
    by becoming obedient to death—
        even death on a cross! 9 Therefore God exalted Him to the highest place
    and gave Him the name that is above every name, 10 that at the Name of Jesus every knee should bow,
    in heaven and on earth and under the earth, 11 and every tongue acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord,
    to the glory of God the Father. He continues His High Priestly role today. He hears our sins and forgives them. He bears our burdens. He heals our diseases. He listens to us all the time. He is the Beautiful Savior Hymn #240 Fairest LORD Jesus

Keep Those Lamps Burning

Exodus 27.20-21 Remember from two weeks ago the Lamp Stand was and is the Church. The Tabernacle and later the Temple contained the Golden Lamp Stands. In Revelation the Church are the Lamp stands. No mention of the building. We, God’s people, are it. Revelation 1.19 “Write, therefore, what you have seen, what is now and what will take place later. 20 The mystery of the seven stars that you saw in my right hand and of the seven golden lampstandsis this: The seven stars are the angels of the seven churches, and the seven lampstands are the seven churches. Luke 12.35 Jesus said, “Be dressed ready for service and keep your lamps burning.” This an exhortation from the LORD. Be dressed Be ready to serve Stay awake Let your light shine He gave this to His disciples at a time when persecution would break out against the church. By the end of the century Christians would be burned, beheaded, band to Islands like Patmos. Wherever they were, they were to keep those lamp stands burning. This is true for us in 2026, here in America and in all other 195 nations. Pray that as a House of Prayer for all nations. How we need to keep the eternal perspective. This life is a mist, a vapor, like the grass of the field, it is soon past. Eternity is forever. Suffering must be seen from an eternal perspective. Riches too. Evil as well. It will not be much longer. Now to the lamps on those stands. * The lamps were fueled by Olive Oil. Olive oil was a symbol of the Holy Spirit. The light of the church is fueled by the Holy Spirit. He is the breath of the church. There is no substitute. If you try you will soon find the lamps burning out. To be fueled by the Spirit we need to be filled with the Spirit.  Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery. Instead, be filled with the Spirit, Ephesians 5.18 Be filled and keep on being filled. This was to be a daily filling. In the Word and in prayer. Praying, “Fill me this day, LORD, with Your Holy Spirit.” He knows what is ahead for each day. We do not. May Your Spirit gush like torrents of living water from within me. Help me to yield to Your Spirit, not my flesh. Again the focus was to keep them filled so they would not go out Before my Dad would go to bed he would bring in enough wood for the fireplace. That fire would heat the house. He saw to it that it would not out. In the middle of the night he would get up and put in a few more pieces of wood. Wood fueled the fire. Wax and a wick light a candle. Oil fuels a lamp. It was golden, unlike the brick fireplace and the glass candle. * They were to burn through the night. In our darkest moments we can be assured that He will fill us with His Spirit. Songs in the Night Job 35.10 But no one says, ‘Where is God my Maker,     Who gives songs in the night, Proverbs 24. 10  If you falter in a time of trouble,     how small is your strength! Night time. When sin is the greatest. In the darkness of night the lamps filled brightly burned. Keep those lamps filled with oil so when the night comes you can see. Matthew 25.1 At that time the kingdom of heaven will be like ten virgins who took their lamps and went out to meet the bridegroom. 2 Five of them were foolish and five were wise. 3 The foolish ones took their lamps but did not take any oil with them. 4 The wise ones, however, took oil in jars along with their lamps. 5 The bridegroom was a long time in coming, and they all became drowsy and fell asleep. 6 “At midnight the cry rang out: ‘Here’s the bridegroom! Come out to meet him!’ 7 “Then all the virgins woke up and trimmed their lamps. 8 The foolish ones said to the wise, ‘Give us some of your oil; our lamps are going out.’ 9 “‘No,’ they replied, ‘there may not be enough for both us and you. Instead, go to those who sell oil and buy some for yourselves.’ 10 “But while they were on their way to buy the oil, the bridegroom arrived. The virgins who were ready went in with him to the wedding banquet. And the door was shut. 11 “Later the others also came. ‘Lord, Lord,’ they said, ‘open the door for us!’ 12 “But he replied, ‘Truly I tell you, I don’t know you.’ 13 “Therefore keep watch, because you do not know the day or the hour. Notice they were all virgins. Blameless character. They all went to meet the Bridegroom. Could be that the foolish virgins never had the Holy Spirit. Could be that they did not attend to their own spiritual lives. * This was a lasting ordinance. It was not just for biblical times. It is for today. How we need the Light today! In these confusing and dark times, the Light shows us the way. The Holy Spirit gives us direction: From the God breathed Word From Within If you don’t have the Word hidden deep within your heart you can mistake emotions or your understanding for the Holy Spirit. The Light shines in darkness and the darkness has not overcome it. In this time, when we need it, the Light is shining. It is for today and until Jesus returns.

The Lamp Stand: The Church

The Lamp Stand: The Church Exodus 25.31-40 We are seeing the beginning of the building plans for the Tabernacle. This was the earliest form of organized worship of the LORD. The second was the Church as we will see this morning. The Lamp Stand was to remind the priests that Israel was to be a light to the world. God was shining His light through them. There would be a place for prayer for all the nations called The Court of the Gentiles. When the Temple was built this was the place to meet with God, Jew and Gentile. This was to be made precisely to the specifications God gave Moses. The Church is shown to be the Lamp Stand in Revelation 1.20 …the seven lampstands are the seven churches. This is NOT a denomination. This is not an association. This is definitely not a Headquarters or Satellites. It is not a fixed system of theology, beyond what we all agree on. It is not church government. These are individual churches, as in the Book of Revelation with an Angel, Messenger or Pastor. This is the Body of Christ Matthew 5.14 You are the light of the world Ephesians 5.8 Live as children of the Light Philippians 2.15 Shine like stars in the universe I John 1 Walk in the Light So what are the specifications for the Church? Jesus addresses the ills in the messages letters to the 7 churches There were issues of forsaking their first love, persecution, idolatry, tolerating false teachers, spiritual death, little strength, and dependence upon riches. Molly Kathleen Mine, Cripple Creek Colorado, 1000 feet down One of our relatives, a Lawrence, died out there, digging for gold! On When the Lampstands shine bright… All of these would be light in the dark world: * First, Jesus said He would build it. Built with Light Bright Illumination Build= erect a building, restore a building Equip= set broken bones, mend ripped nets He is speaking of a spiritual building Psalm 104.2 The LORD wraps Himself in light as with a garment; Jesus is His own witness. * Second, the Holy Spirit brings people in. They come in when they are born of the Spirit. No one can come to Me unless the Father who sent Me draws him; and I will raise him up on the last day. John 6.44 How is the Lamp Stand powered? By olive oil, symbol of the Holy Spirit Zechariah 4.6 Not by might, nor by power but by My Spirit says the LORD. They would come to the Light. Let your light shine! * Third, There are activities of the Church: Acts 2:42 They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. Spiritual Activities No mention of board meetings or committees No mention of offerings or worship music. No mention of age group ministry Spiritual Building not physical Devoted To * The Word of God Lights are going on all time as we read, study and meditate upon the Word Growing in understanding as the lights go off in our minds! When we walk with the LORD’s, in the light of His Word, what a glory He sheds on our way! There is a glory, an illumination as we read the Word. Luke 24. 32 They asked each other, “Were not our hearts burning within us while He talked with us on the road and opened the Scriptures to us?” Psalm 119.105 Your Word is a lamp to my feet and a Light for my path. * Fellowship There is something different about fellowship with the Church. It is fellowship of light. You will not hear foul language here. You will not hear dirty jokes. You will have understanding given and received. You will be blessed by it You will be strengthened by it. You will help others in it. I saw it last Sunday when we took the LORD’s Supper together. If Jesus is present then we will exclaim, “God is with us.” Emmanuel * Eating Together and Taking the LORD’s Supper This too is a time of joyful illumination. This is a time of Spiritual Nourishment Good Digestion Lights should go on as we take it. As we get nearer to Heaven this makes it clearer. * Prayer You leave these prayer meetings with brightness and glory. Shekeniah Glory Light comes to people from prayer meetings when their prayers are answered. We are leaving to be lights. Shine brightly. If you follow Jesus you will.