Read Leviticus 10:1-7 The Sin of Nadab and Abihu

And Moses said to Aaron, This is what the LORD spoke, saying: By those who come near Me I must be regarded as holy; And before all the people I must be glorified. So Aaron held his peace. (Leviticus 10:3)

Death in the family is often a solemn, grieving and heartbroken occasion. Yet there were times of relief and acceptance when one knows the grace and mercy of God is evidenced. When one of my brothers passed on, though in natural we thought of the lost yet the mercy of God to sustain him till his last lapse. We moved on with thanksgiving in his memorial service. Here is an incident of death that occurs in the priests household that reveals us Gods holiness.

These words came to Moses for Aaron right after the death of his sons, Nadab and Abihu. Aaron and his children were set apart as priests. As priests they were role models and given position of privilege to approach God on behalf of the people. They were representing God. God would hear from them.

Here Nadab and Abihu offered profane fire before the LORD, which He had not commanded them. So fire went out from the LORD and devoured them, and they died before the LORD. They were not following the protocol they had been instructed thus coming under judgement.

Aaron held his peace fully aware of what transpired. The recall of his mistake that he had brought such a great sin upon them while Moses was up on the mountain. Three thousand were put to death while his life was spared. He must have felt responsible for erecting the golden calf and now relented for his sin. He knew his sons did wrong. The priesthood still remained and his other sons could continue

God made clear His attribute of Holiness and He acted to glorify His Name. Those who come near must meet those expectations. The theme of Leviticus is holiness. "For I am the LORD your God. You shall therefore consecrate yourselves, and you shall be holy; for I am holy... (Leviticus 11:44a) Speak to all the congregation of the children of Israel, and say to them: You shall be holy, for I the LORD your God am holy. (Leviticus 19:2)

God deserves all the glory and no one share the glory belonging to Him. God is merciful and love but His holiness is to be honoured with reverence fear before all people. .

Therefore gird up the loins of your mind, be sober, and rest your hope fully upon the grace that is to be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ; as obedient children, not conforming yourselves to the former lusts, as in your ignorance; but as He who called you is holy, you also be holy in all your conduct, because it is written, Be holy, for I am holy. (I Peter 1:13 -16)

Prayer: Lord, You are Holy and I will acknowledge You by my attitude in worship and service. By Your grace I am set apart to be instrument of worship before You. Only on the basis of Christ righteousness that I stand accepted before You.

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