Read Numbers 16: 41-50
And Aaron took as Moses commanded, and ran into the midst of the congregation; and, behold, the plague was begun among the people: and he put on incense, and made atonement for the people. And he stood between the dead and the living; and the plague was stayed. Numbers 16:47-48 KJV
Because the congregation of Israel had rebelled against the leadership of Moses and the priesthood of Aaron, God sent a deadly plague among them. The very leadership and priesthood they had rebelled against were now needed to act quickly in their behalf. Moses sent Aaron into the midst of the people to make atonement. As high priest it was his responsibility. Although they had been criticized and offended by the actions of the people it is quite a dramatic picture to see these leaders react selflessly in behalf of the offenders. What a great example for any leadership today! Aaron stood between the living and the dead to stop the plague. When people are dying because of sin, someone must stand! Having made atonement, Jesus now intercedes for us (Romans 8:34; Hebrews 7:25), but you and I also have a responsibility to pray for and witness to others.
Lord, there seems to be two important lessons in these verses. As a leader I can not afford to hold the criticisms of people against them or else I will miss important life changing opportunities to act in their behalf. I am also impressed with the reminder that every time I step into the world I step among the living and the dead. How important it is to be prepared with the message of salvation, the only atonement for their sins. Help me to be the leader and the servant you have called me to be.
A question to ponder: Although Jesus has made the necessary atonement for sin and presently intercedes for us, why is it necessary for you and I to pray for others and declare the gospel of salvation to them?
