The Heart of the Matter

Reading of the Day: Exodus 26-28

Exodus 28:29: And Aaron shall bear the names of the children of Israel in the breastplate of judgment upon his heart, when he goeth in unto the holy place, for a memorial before the Lord continually.

We are now entering the tabernacle during this reading, and we are approaching this holy place with Aaron & his sons as they adorn themselves in their holy garments. As stated before, it's so interesting to analyze all of these intricate details to see how they represent something more deep & spiritual...it's all about getting to the heart of the matter! And the heart is the true treasure hidden inside...the treasure behind each beautiful emerald, onyx stone & jasper on Aaron's breastplate! Each of the 12 stones listed throughout this passage represents one of the 12 tribes of Israel, and they are first put on stones on the shoulders, 6 on one side & 6 on the other. Then, they each have their own individual stone on the breastplate over Aaron's heart. This was to be a memorial before the Lord continually! And a memorial for Aaron too! It was a constant reminder of carrying the tribes & families of Israel on his shoulders...their burdens, their trials, their struggles...and also upon his heart most importantly, showing the love. The care. The passion. The why. The heart of the matter! He was to bear their names. What names do we bear? What family heritage do we carry with us? Who do we need to talk more to about Jesus so they can be saved? We may not wear a breastplate with their names, but we definitely can bring them to The Lord in prayer! Let's always remember the heart of the matter-the love of God that He has for His people! It's our job to let Him shine that love through us to others...just like the shining & glistening stones with the names of the tribes upon the breastplate.