The Anointing Oil

 There are many symbols in the Bible. When we read the Bible, it is helpful to know what the symbols mean. Just like yeast or leaven is a symbol for sin, not just the substance that causes bread to rise. So when we read about the Lord commanding them to have a Feast of Unleavened Bread, we know that He was wanting them to clean out the sin in their lives, not just change their diet for a week. The same is true for light and darkness, as well as other symbols in the Bible.

There is one very meaningful symbol we see in Leviticus and in other parts of the Bible. That symbol is oil or anointing oil. (Leviticus 8:10,12) Moses was commanded to take the anointing oil and anoint the Tabernacle and everything in it, making them holy. Then, he was to pour some anointing oil on the high priest, Aaron's head, anointing him and making him holy for his work. The oil is a symbol of the Holy Spirit's presence and power to change our lives.

If we don't have the Holy Spirit in us, it is impossible for us to do God's will the way we should. He is essential for us to live the Christian life. However, in the Old Covenant the Holy Spirit did not reside in every believer like He does today. Instead, God commanded the prophets, priests, and kings to be anointed to show they were set apart by God for His service. Then, the Holy Spirit came "upon" them to give them power and direction. The people were to follow them because of God's presence being with them.

Now that we, as Christians, have the Holy Spirit in us, we are automatically set apart from this world, and we are set apart to God for His service. Each of us are servants of God, but we have to allow the Spirit to fill us and to direct us, so we can do God's will well. The word "Messiah" means the Anointed One. Jesus was sent from heaven and anointed by the Holy Spirit to carry out our redemption on the cross. Now, we are here to be His anointed servants and carry on His work. We must rely on the Spirit every day.

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Tomorrow, I intend to read Leviticus 9-11.