Then the leaders of the tribe of Levi came to consult with Eleazar the priest, Joshua son of Nun, and the leaders of the other tribes of Israel. They came to them at Shiloh in the land of Canaan and said, “The LORD commanded Moses to give us towns to live in and pasturelands for our livestock.” So by the command of the LORD the people of Israel gave the Levites the following towns and pasturelands out of their own grants of land. [Joshua 21.1-3]
I see two things from this passage of scripture today.
One thing is that it was right for Israel to support their priests. God had made provision for those whose lives were dedicated to assisting the people in their devotion to Him. It was right in Old Testament times, and, it is right in New Testament times however the spiritual leaders' role has indeed changed according to Old or New Covenant.
The other thing seen here today is that it was also right that the spiritual leaders 'claimed' their God-given right of provision from the people. Knowing their role and position in the community, the spiritual leaders made known that their service was to be supported by the people.
Other than the administration of sacrifices (which is a big deal), the role of spiritual leaders today has much in common with the roles of spiritual leaders of Old Testament times. They facilitate people having relationship with God. And, in exchange for their service both to God and man, they should be provided for.
It is worth understanding that the Levites of the Old Testament, who were provided for by command of God, included all those involved in ministry to God - musicians, singers, laborers, as well as priests. It makes me wonder if our modern 'budgets' might be a little misguided in priority.
Father, help us to get it right concerning those who facilitate devotion to You. Help the modern Church understand that, while 'volunteer service' is good, that it is better that we support that willingness financially enabling more focus and dedication to whatever task the 'volunteer' engages in.
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