Read today’s texts first: Zechariah 4-6; Luke 12
MAXIMize YOUR DAY
When we serve as a priest and a king we can reach up and out, loving God then our neighbour.
The calling to be a royal priesthood applied to both Israel (Ex. 19:6) and the church (I Peter 2:9). It means we are to relate directly to God as priests (Jesus being our High Priest), ministering before Him daily. It also means we are to rule with Him as kings (Jesus being the King of Kings), exercising His authority on earth as it is in heaven. If Israel had lived up to that calling, there would have been no priestly tribe (the Levites took on the role by default – Ex. 32:26) or human king (Judges 8:23; 1 Samuel 8:6,7).
Zechariah’s lampstand is the perfect illustration of how those two roles blend together. The two olive trees on either side represented Zerubbabel, the king, and Zechariah, the priest (4:12-14). The branches of the trees blend together, holding up the bowl filled with the oil that flows to the seven lights. The oil always represents the Holy Spirit. The symbolism is clear – when we hold those two roles in balance we create a reservoir for the Holy Spirit to empower our lives and provide light to those around us.
With that context it’s easy to see the meaning behind this oft quoted verse: “Not by might, nor by power, but by my Spirit” says the Lord Almighty (4:5). When we relate directly to Jesus as priest and king, and hold those two roles in proper balance (love God and our neighbour, reaching up and out), then God’s Spirit will enable us to fulfill that high calling in His strength.
“Lord, today I will serve you as both priest and king as Your Spirit alone enables me!”
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