“And you shall command the children of Israel that they bring you pure oil of pressed olives for the light, to cause the lamp to burn continually.”
Exodus 27:20 NKJV
Throughout Jewish traditions we understand the significance of olive oil and its functions. From the usage of lamps to anointing and many other ways, what I personally find quite remarkable is the similarities throughout the Word within proper context. In a way our lives go through times of pressing and pressure that enable trust in God that will not be shaken; like an intricately crafted masterpiece displaying God's abundance through our lack. His guiding, loving hands lead our lives through streams to bring about heart transformation and inexpressible joy. As we see clearly throughout the text, “We are hard-pressed on every side, yet not crushed; we are perplexed, but not in despair;”
II Corinthians 4:8 NKJV
The next thing I find exciting in this verse is “to cause the lamp to burn continually.” As oil is mentioned many times throughout the Word, we see the symbolic and metaphorical meaning of oil in connection to the third person of the trinity, the Holy Spirit. In the most simple ways the work of the Holy Spirit is one of strengthening what’s holy and razing what’s corrupt. From darkness to light we are called not merely to preach the light of the Gospel, but to also live as “lights” in light of the Gospel.
yes, sensitive to His promptings.
yes, yielding to His rebukes.
yes, resting in His promises.
May we remember,
“For it is the God who commanded light to shine out of darkness, who has shone in our hearts to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ.”
II Corinthians 4:6 NKJV
“You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do they light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.”
Matthew 5:14-16 NKJV
So though pressed, give glory. May our hearts be tethered to Him who brought us out of darkness and has given us the privilege to partake in a proclamation so grand, it’s eternal.
Comments