EXODUS 19:5-6

Now if you obey me fully and keep my covenant, then out of all nations you will be my treasured possession. Although the whole earth is mine, you will be for me a kingdom of priests and a holy nation.’ These are the words you are to speak to the Israelites.”

TO PONDER

Who is God talking to here, when he says, ‘you will be for me a kingdom of priests?’ 

He’s talking to a whole bunch of people. His chosen mob. And that includes you and me! And he gives us a title – a Kingdom of priests, or a priesthood of all believers. Do you know what that might mean for you? That means that you can do some pastoral stuff. You are allowed, and in fact, are called, to be pastors too!  You are permitted to perform God’s service in the community. You are encouraged to reach out to people, to phone them, and visit them. The pastor does not need to do it all, and shouldn’t do it all, because sometimes you will do it better. 

Now that you know this, what’s stopping you from being your own version of a pastor in your community?

PRAYER:  Thank you, Lord, for the responsibility you’ve given us. Sometimes though, it’s scary. It makes us nervous. Give us the confidence and courage to go and be pastoral to all those who don’t know your saving love. Amen    

Today's devotion written by Mark Simpfendorfer, LifeWay Epping