Malachi, the last of the three post-exilic prophets (432-425 BC), deals with the continued spiritual failure of the Israelites. The priests were ignoring God’s laws, the men were divorcing their wives to marry pagan women, and the people were neglecting the tithe.
In response, God reminds them that they are supposed to be his chosen people, He calls them to repentance, and once again announces that the “Day of the Lord” will come, when sinners will be judged and the righteous remnant will be rewarded. God also promises that he himself will come down to rule in Israel, with his messenger “Elijah” preparing the way ahead of him.
In chapter 2:5-6 we read, “My covenant with Levi was to give life and peace. I kept my covenant with him, and he honoured me. He stood in reverent awe before me. He taught the truth and did not lie. He walked with me in peace and uprightness. He kept many out of the ditch, kept them on the road.”
Levi was the third son of Jacob and he and his offsprings were tasked with looking after the Temple Sanctuary.
And it is here that we find a description of what God wants from the priests in the Old Testament. He enters into special covenant with them, and guides them as to how they would lead his people, represent the glory of God before the people and how stand as intermediaries between the two.
Jesus, according to Paul, is the on above all others as he writes to Timothy and says “that there’s one God and only one, and one Priest-Mediator between God and us—Jesus” (1 Timothy 2:5)
Lord, empower us to live worthy of the calling we have received. You have consecrated us, sanctified us, and set us apart for your kingdom purpose. Forgive us for living for ourselves instead of for You. Ignite Your Word in our hearts and give us the faith to live by it, turning many from iniquity. May we stand in awe of You, living lives that reveal Your glory.
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