Almas shares about Intercession

In the past, when I read the Bible, I really read it thinking I had an understanding of what was there. But now, I read seeking what I have not known before, what I need to learn anew, what God is teaching me now.

One of the things that I read in Exodus had new impotus. Exodus 28: 9-12

Take two onyx stones and engrave on them the names of the sons of Israel in the order of their birth—six names on one stone and the remaining six on the other. Engrave the names of the sons of Israel on the two stones the way a gem cutter engraves a seal. Then mount the stones in gold filigree settings and fasten them on the shoulder pieces of the ephod as memorial stones for the sons of Israel. Aaron is to bear the names on his shoulders as a memorial before the LORD.

This got me to thinking about Aaron’s responsibilities of representing the people before God and leading them to God. Aaron was to bear the names as a memorial before the Lord – to represent the people before God and lead the people to God. I am a pastor, and as such I have similar responsibilites with my small flock. Of course, they can all access God directly – I’m know that I don’t replace Christ in that role. But as their pastor I do represent them, as their leader, before God. And of course am responsible for pointing them to God.

As I meditated on this, I started writing down the names of all the leaders in my church, then everyone. I laid this list before God and began praying for them. And I carry this list with me, that whenever I stand before God (whether in personal prayer or in corporate worship) I can carry their names as a memorial before God. God sees each person, whether I carry my list or not. The issue is with me. As I carry their names with me I am reminded of my responsibilities, the burden of leadership. This has really helped me keep me from arrogance about my grand title of “pastor.” And I pray for them, either individually or as a group, each time I pray.

Just recently I was reading in Numbers. Numbers 14: 19-20

[Moses asked] “In accordance with your great love, forgive the sin of these people, just as you have pardoned them from the time they left Egypt until now.” The LORD replied, “I have forgiven them, as you asked.

God said he would no longer go with Israel. Moses appealed to God to forgive the Israelites even though He had decided to wipe them out, and God forgave them. This hit me. Changed me. This helped me in huge ways to intercede for others. Moses stood up to God when He was steaming mad. Moses saved Israel in a manner of speaking. He interceded. He carried the names of Israel before God, as Aaron’s priestly garments suggest the high priest did. Intercession is so key.

I am happy to know that people are praying for me (my director, our supporters, others) just as I am praying for others. I am pleased to know that they are there. And others can be encouraged because I / we are praying for them. Knowing that people are praying for us – I know that all will be OK. And when we pray for others – all will be OK.