27 AugustExodus 27

Keep the oil burning

Exodus 27:21 (NIV) In the tent of meeting, outside the curtain that shields the ark of the covenant law, Aaron and his sons are to keep the lamps burning before the Lord from evening till morning. This is to be a lasting ordinance among the Israelites for the generations to come.

The lamps were to be kept alight from evening until the following day through the hours of darkness. The Tabernacle contained several significant furnishings, including the Menorah, a seven-armed golden lampstand. This Hebrew word means ‘bearer of light’, and translators sometimes called it the Lamp of God. The seven lamps lit up the Holy Place and served as a reminder of God’s presence. That’s why the priests needed to tend the lamps every day.

Just as the priests of old tended to the lamp of God in the tabernacle, we are to keep it alight in the world. However, to be light bearers in this dark world, we need to be one with the source of light, Jesus Christ. 1 John 1:5 (NIV) “This is the message we have heard from him and declare to you: God is light; in him there is no darkness at all”.

John 8:12 (NIV) When Jesus spoke again to the people, he said, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.”

Romans 13:11-14 (AMP) Do this, knowing that this is a critical time. It is already the hour for you to awaken from your sleep [of spiritual complacency]; for our salvation is nearer to us now than when we first believed [in Christ]. 12 The night [this present evil age] is almost gone and the day [of Christ’s return] is almost here. So let us fling away the works of darkness and put on the [full] armor of light. 13 Let us conduct ourselves properly and honorably as in the [light of] day, not in carousing and drunkenness, not in sexual promiscuity and irresponsibility, not in quarreling and jealousy. 14 But clothe yourselves with the Lord Jesus Christ, and make no provision for [nor even think about gratifying] the flesh in regard to its improper desires.

Matthew 5:16 (AMP) Let your light shine before men in such a way that they may see your good deeds and moral excellence, and [recognize and honor and] glorify your Father who is in heaven.

Keeping the oil burning requires dedication, faithfulness, and a deep connection to our Savior. As we tend to our spiritual lamps, let us be vigilant in prayer, immerse ourselves in God's Word, and seek fellowship with fellow believers. Through these practices, we will maintain the flame of faith, illuminating our path and the paths of those around us.

May we be inspired by the lasting ordinance given to the Israelites and take up the mantle of light bearers in our generation. Let us shine brightly, for the world is watching, and our light may guide others to the hope and salvation found in Jesus Christ.