“This is the service of the clans of the Gershonites, in serving and bearing burdens: they shall carry the curtains of the tabernacle and the tent of meeting with its covering and the covering of goatskin that is on top of it and the screen for the entrance of the tent of meeting and the hangings of the court and the screen for the entrance of the gate of the court that is around the tabernacle and the altar, and their cords and all the equipment for their service. And they shall do all that needs to be done with regard to them. All the service of the sons of the Gershonites shall be at the command of Aaron and his sons, in all that they are to carry and in all that they have to do…
“And this is what they are charged to carry, as the whole of their service in the tent of meeting: the frames of the tabernacle, with its bars, pillars, and bases, and the pillars around the court with their bases, pegs, and cords, with all their equipment and all their accessories. And you shall list by name the objects that they are required to carry. This is… the whole of their service in the tent of meeting, under… the priest.”
“All those who were listed of the Levites, whom Moses and Aaron and the chiefs of Israel listed, by their clans and their fathers’ houses, from thirty years old up to fifty years old, everyone who could come to do the service of ministry and the service of bearing burdens in the tent of meeting, those listed were 8,580. According to the commandment of the Lord through Moses they were listed, each one with his task of serving or carrying.” Numbers 4:24-27,31-33,46-49
The tasks commanded of the clans of priests for the mobile tabernacle were many and detailed. To take them on took serious attention, determination and will, and commitment to God’s greater calling to lead in His service. And the breadth of this obedience also presupposed a unique strength. It takes heartiness, both physical and spiritual, to bear such burdens.
When leading for Christ in our corner of the world, we must be strong. We can strategize, make lists, and tend to particulars, but we must also be able to handle the weight of every dimension of what is required. The bearing of emotional strain, the physical rigor of energetic service, the intellectual capacity for discernment, and the spiritual fortitude to be humble and steadfast in prayer all take consideration and must be fueled by the Holy Spirit.
How do we ready ourselves for God’s call? How attentive are we in caring for body, mind, and soul so we are vigorous and able to handle varied aspects of each task? Where are we lacking? Do we take time to rest, to exercise the body, to draw strength and wisdom from His word, to be energized and trained by the encouragement of fellowship and corporate worship?
What disciplines do we need to incorporate into daily rhythms that will fit us for bearing the burdens of our Lord’s service? How have we seen His enabling come to fruition? Whom can we help to strengthen their fitness?
Lord, train me so I’m prepared and eager for every assignment, for Your kingdom’s sake and glory.
As the rain and snow 