Aaron's Rod

Numbers 17:8 – And it came to pass, that on the morrow Moses went into the tabernacle of witness; and behold, the rod of Aaron for the house of Levi was budded, and brought forth buds, and bloomed blossoms, and yielded almonds. (KJV)

Several years ago, I started a newsletter as an encouragement for individuals with disabilities and their families. My title, "Aaron's Rod", was inspired by the story in Numbers 17. I included in my newsletter this mission statement: "Inspiring children of God with disabilities to blossom using the gifts God has given them." When I think of Aaron's rod, the first idea that comes to mind is fruitfulness: using the talents that God has given us for His purpose and glory.

The story of Aaron's rod began with a dispute among the leaders of Israel regarding the ministry of Moses and Aaron. In response to their complaints, God instructed Moses to collect their staffs, each bearing the name of one of the twelve tribes. The staffs were kept overnight in the tabernacle. The next day, Moses found that Aaron's rod had not only budded and blossomed but had produced almonds! It was the rod that miraculously produced fruit that confirmed God's choice of Moses and Aaron. God is able to use anyone who is willing to serve Him with a humble heart.

I read an interesting story in a Bible study guide about a mother who began reading and personalizing Scripture for her two mentally-challenged children. Before she knew it, these Scriptures were already having a tremendous effect in the lives of others. Having a similar experience, I see God's Word making a remarkable difference in the life of my autistic son.

God appointed each of us with a variety of ministries, according to His will. As the body of Christ, we must be careful, however, to serve Him with humility and to work together, respecting the unique individual gifts of our fellow believers. The apostle Paul makes this principle clear: "Now there are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit, and there are differences of administrations, but the same Lord." (1 Corinthians 12:4-5 KJV)

Let us each examine our lives. Are we producing fruit that will bring honour and glory to Christ? Despite our various backgrounds or disadvantages, the budded rod is a symbol of God's power to enable us to bear fruit for Him that will last forever.

Prayer: Father, help us to serve You with humility, allowing Your Spirit to work through us, that we may blossom and be productive using the special abilities and gifts You have given uniquely to each of us. Amen.

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