And Moses and Aaron went into the tabernacle of the congregation, and came out, and blessed the people: and the glory of the LORD appeared unto all the people. And there came a fire out from before the LORD, and consumed upon the altar the burnt offering and the fat: which when all the people saw, they shouted, and fell on their faces. Leviticus 9:23-24 KJV
What a glorious day Israel’s inaugural use of the Tabernacle was! The glory of The LORD appeared and fire went out from Him to consume the sacrifice. Both actions by God indicated His presence among them and His acceptance of their sacrifice. Since the fire on the altar was to never go out (6:12-13), all future sacrifices would be consumed by this fire that originated with God. This was a promise of His continued presence and acceptance. In response the people shouted for joy, and humbled themselves in worship. The fire of God, the Holy Spirit is in us today as a guarantee of God’s presence and acceptance (Ephesians 1:13-14). May we ever have an attitude of joy and worship.
Lord, having experienced Your salvation, I can imagine how Israel must have felt on the day You blessed them with Your presence and acceptance. As they responded in joy and worship, help me to do the same. The blessing of Your presence and acceptance in my life is a daily experience, how can I not worship and rejoice before You daily as well.
