North South East West

Numbers 3 and 4

God allocated, categorized, the Levitical tribes around the tabernacle, literally.

To the West – the Gershonites, in charge of the tabernacle fabrics, the tent, the screen for the tent of meeting, the hangings of the court, the screen for the doorway of the court which is around the tabernacle and the altar, and the cords.  I.e., the soft goods.

To the South – the sons of Kohath, in charge of the ark, the table, the lampstand, the altars, the utensils, the screen.  I.e., the hard goods.

To the North – the son of Merari, the Mahlites, in charge of the frames of the tabernacle, the bars, its pillars, equipment, its sockets, pegs and cords.  I.e., the structure.

To the East – Moses, Aaron and the Priests, in charge of the duties of the tabernacle.  I.e., doing the actual work of service.

Not all Levites were priests.  Only those who were descendents of Aaron.

But all Levites were called upon to serve.

And they were organized.  Assigned.  Delegated.  Designated.

On all four sides of the tabernacle were those ready to set up, break down, and carry.  And protect.

The “stranger” was not allowed to come near, or he would be put to death.

What is our assignment?  My assignment?

Am I responsible for beams, poles, tent pegs and frames?  Big pieces.  Order.  Definition.  Security.  Something solid, rigid, strong, on which other components can be securely affixed and fastened.  Structure.

Am I responsible for “soft goods,” color, sound, beauty, design, decoration, covering, image.  Environment.  Feng shui.  Context.

Am I responsible for “equipment,” tools, instruments of service, furniture and furnishings, light stands, aids, accoutrements.  Resources.

Am I responsible for the priesthood, representing the people before God, holiness, purity, sacrifice.  Intercession.  Service. 

Right now, for me, I would have to say “structure.”  Order.  Definition.  Firm pillars around and on which other features can be attached.  Indeed, on which they depend, or they fall into the dirt.  Doing my job so others can do theirs.  Providing a safe, sound, secure environment for others to perform service.

What’s your assignment?

LORD, may I faithfully perform that which You call me to do.

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