Read: Numbers 6:22–27

The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make his face to shine upon you, and be gracious to you; the Lord lift up his countenance upon you, and give you peace. Numbers 6:24–26

God instructed Moses to have Aaron pronounce this blessing over all the people of Israel. It is an ancient blessing that demonstrates God’s desire to shower people with goodness. Safekeeping, a lighted way, and the hope for both gracious and peaceful living are all a part of God’s most basic desires for us. The priests were to offer this benediction as a way of sending people out into the world, mindful of God’s desire to bless them wherever they might go. And to this day, every time we hear this blessing pronounced in our churches, it is a reminder of our connection with people of faith throughout the generations. This benediction may be ancient, but God’s ability to bless us is renewed each day and in every age.

When was the last time this blessing was pronounced over you?

Lord, thank You for sending me out into the world with words of encouragement that remind me of Your presence in my life and Your interest in all I do. Thank You, also, for the unbroken line of faith that connects those words from Aarons mouth to my ears. Your faithfulness has been experienced through every generation leading up to my own. What a blessing to be reminded that Your love and interest in us is never diminished. In Your name, I pray. AMEN.