How can we prepare for God's calling, as Eleazar did in Numbers 20:28? The Scene on Mount Hor “Then Moses removed Aaron’s garments and put them on his son Eleazar; and Aaron died there on top of the mountain. Then Moses and Eleazar came down from the mountain.” (Numbers 20:28) Eleazar steps into a role prepared for him by God, clothed in priestly garments, ready to serve the people and honor the Lord. His quiet readiness models how we, too, can prepare for the calling God assigns. Recognizing the Call • God’s calling is sovereign—Eleazar did not campaign for priesthood; it was conferred (Exodus 28:1). • The transition was public and unmistakable, confirming God’s choice before the congregation (Numbers 20:26-27). • Preparation begins with acknowledging that God, not self, initiates true ministry (John 15:16). Preparing the Heart • Consecration: “Consecrate yourselves, for tomorrow the LORD will do wonders among you.” (Joshua 3:5) • Purity of motive: “Who may ascend the mountain of the LORD? … He who has clean hands and a pure heart.” (Psalm 24:3-4) • Availability: Samuel’s response—“Speak, for Your servant is listening.” (1 Samuel 3:10) Being Clothed in the Right Garments • Eleazar was literally robed in Aaron’s garments; we are spiritually robed in Christ (Galatians 3:27). • Put off the old self, put on the new (Ephesians 4:22-24). • Holiness is not optional attire for God’s servants (1 Peter 1:15-16). Submitting to God’s Process • Eleazar’s training was long-term—years beside his father in the tabernacle (Numbers 3:4). • God often uses ordinary seasons to forge extraordinary servants. • “Humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you in due time.” (1 Peter 5:6) Walking in Obedience Every Day • The priest’s tasks were daily—offerings, fire tending, blessing the people (Leviticus 6:12-13). • Faithfulness in small assignments precedes larger ones (Luke 16:10). • Steadfast obedience proves genuine preparedness (James 1:22-25). Living as a Signpost for the Next Generation • Eleazar’s faithful service helped stabilize Israel after Aaron’s death (Numbers 20:29). • Our obedience encourages those who follow, illustrating the trustworthiness of God’s ways (2 Timothy 2:2). • A life well-lived proclaims, “The LORD is faithful to every generation.” (Psalm 119:90) Putting It All Together Prepare for God’s calling by consecrating your heart, clothing yourself in Christlike holiness, submitting to His timing, practicing daily obedience, and viewing your life as a testimony for others. Just as Eleazar descended Mount Hor ready to serve, we can walk forward, assured that the God who calls also equips (Hebrews 13:20-21). |