The Privilege and Responsibility of Pastoring

“I chose your ancestor out of all the tribes of Israel to be My priests, to go up to the altar, to burn incense, and to wear an ephod.” (1 Samuel 2:28 NIV)

The high priest, Eli, had developed a serious blind spot when it came to his sons. They were wicked; stealing from the offerings and defiling female worshipers. God had had enough and He reminded Eli it was a privilege to serve as a priest. This verse discloses four distinctions of the priesthood:

Position: Priests were mediators between man and God. They assisted the community in moral matters. They often functioned as a divine mouthpiece.

Presence: Priests were allowed further into God’s presence than anyone else. They could approach the altar. They could experience Him as commoners could not.

Personal worship: Priest had a worship experience far more intimate than the public experience. They’d receive instruction for their people, but also for personal matters.

Power: Priests alone would wear the ephod. The ephod was a garment, but also a tool for deriving the will of God in decision-making.

Each of these aspects of priesthood were weighted with responsibility as well as privilege. I’d imagine that sometimes the weight felt more obvious than the privilege.

Of course, since the life and death and resurrection of Jesus, this system has changed considerably. This morning, though, I am reminded of the great privilege it is to serve the Kingdom through pastoral ministry. There are still incredible benefits in this God-ordained role: not limited to position, presence, personal worship opportunities, and power to speak into other people’s lives. In some seasons, though, the responsibility piece feels especially heavy (pastoring through a pandemic has been especially challenging) but I cannot afford to forget the privilege it is to serve God vocationally. He’s called. I’ve answered. What an honor!

After reading Eli’s story this morning, I’m realizing that failure to wield my God-given responsibility/privilege well could result in being passed over. God told Eli, his time was up. His family had failed. Eli had honored his wicked sons over his holy God and his window of ministry was closing. God would raise up another in his place.

“I will raise up for Myself a faithful priest, who will do according to what is in my heart and mind. I will firmly establish his priestly house, and they will minister before my annointed one always.” (1 Samuel 2:35 NIV)

Pastors are replaceable. It’s hard to hear, but it’s true. God can accomplish His will without me. It is an honor to be included in the building of His Kingdom and if I fail to keep that in mind, I can be removed. He’ll raise up another or I can rise to the occasion myself.

Lord, please help me wear divine responsibility well. Thank You for the reminder this morning; pastoring is privilege. I am blessed to be Your servant. Help me follow through with what is in Your heart and mind. Strengthen my resolve to honor You in this season. Amen.