The final items that were to be created for the tabernacle and its service were the garments for the priests, who had to be descendants of Moses’ brother Aaron. The ephod, which sat on the shoulders over the robe, attached to the breastpiece (4), and the breastpiece had twelve precious stones mounted in it, representing the twelve tribes of Israel (10-14). In this way, the priest wore a continual reminder of his responsibility as an intercessory prayer servant for the people of God.

The robe and tunic worn underneath were woven of linen of high quality (22, 27) to show the great privilege and distinction of serving the LORD. Lastly, there was a plate attached to the turban that was engraved with the words: “Holy to the LORD” (30). To be holy means to be set apart for a higher purpose. The holiness of the priest’s calling was to be reflected in a pure life lived every day.

Our true high priest, Christ, has made a holy priesthood out of all believers (1 Pe 2:5). We don’t need special clothes, but we should continually remind ourselves of our spiritual identity, knowing that we are set apart from the world to serve God and pray for others.
Application: Father, thank you for the great privilege you gave me in Christ to serve you as a holy priest. Help me to never stop praying for the world.
One Word: Holy to the Lord