My Load is Light

Jesus Pictured in the book of Numbers

Today's Through the Bible Reading: Numbers 3 - 4

Abbreviated Reading: Numbers 3:40 - 4:28

“All their service, whether carrying or doing other work, is to be done under the direction of Aaron…” Numbers 4:27 niv

In His instruction to Israel, God demonstrated His character and indicated how He would later instruct His church, including you and me!

For example, God gave two Levite families, the Kohathites and Gershonites, detailed instructions regarding their service to the Lord. Both of these priestly families were called to carry (and not to carry) specific objects for use in the tabernacle (Num. 4:15, 24). Carrying a burden God had not called them to carry would bring death (Num. 4:20). And everything they did was to be completed under the watchful eye of Aaron the high priest.

As followers of Jesus, you and I are called a chosen generation, a royal priesthood (1 Peter 2:9). Like those Old Testament priests, we are set apart for God’s service. And just like them, all that we do is to be completed under the direction and watchful guidance of our Great High Priest, Jesus (Heb. 4:14–16).

Like the Kohathites and Gershonites, God has instructed us as to the things we are to carry and those we are not to carry. We are to carry our cross.

“Whoever does not carry his own cross and come after Me cannot be My disciple.” Luke 14:27 nasb

But we are told to lay down our burdens (Luke 9:23; Matt. 11:28–30).

“Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about you.” 1 Peter 5:7, nlt

Jesus bore the weight of the world on His shoulders (Matt. 8:17; Isa. 9:3). He carried away our sins so our load could be light. He calls us to lay down our own lives as He gathers us in His arms (1 John 3:16; Isa. 40:11; John 10:11–18).

Today, remember that you live under the tender watchful care of your Great High Priest who carries you, so you can carry on.