Balance of Power

Num 27:20-28:8         12/22/10

God gave Moses instructions concerning the relationship between Joshua and Eleazer, the High Priest. Joshua was to be installed in the sight of all the people, including the High Priest. He was to be installed by the laying on of Moses’ hands. Joshua was to consult the High Priest in decision-making through the use of the Urim in the presence of the Lord – which only the high priest could do.

So, going forward the political prescription for the Authentic Community consisted in a balance of power. Whereas Moses had been both, the roles were now to be split between the Hebrew Priesthood and the Executive General, both of whom were appointed by God for their role.

Wisdom and execution; vested in at least two different people. If we see things as Hobbes saw, then its all about the priest and the king. If we see things as Benedict saw; then an Abbott and a Prior.

Contemplative and active; wisdom and execution. To listen and to do.

But Jesus is both King and Priest. He was and is – all in all. Everything was consolidated in Him.

Here’s the scary part. You are likewise called both to relate and to listen to God and to act in accordance with His purposes.

Noblesse Oblige.

“You made them a kingdom and priests for our God, and they will reign on earth” Rev 5:10