Numbers 18  The Lord, once again,  explains to Aaron and Moses... and the Levites.. that they have been chosen to "bear the guilt" - take responsibility  for the sanctuary and the priesthood.  They had a solemn obligation to serve in the tabernacle.  Aaron's responsibility was great.. but his sons and the Levites were given to him to serve and to share in this work.  They were responsible to guard and protect the things of the Lord. To fail would bring death to those who were "outsiders" and to them also.  

But, not only was this work an obligation and responsibility.. it was a gift.  The Lord called it a "bestowed service".  They were in charge of the offerings and holy gifts that were given to the Lord.. every offering.. sin offerings, burnt offerings, grain offerings. guilt offerings.. everything!   And out of those offerings they would feed themselves and their families.  They had no land of their own.. no inheritance except the Lord Himself.  But... they would have the "best of the fresh oil, and all the best of the fresh wine and of the grain, the first fruits of those which they give to the Lord,.." the Lord told them. " I give them to you."

The Levites would receive the "tithe" that all of Israel would bring to the Lord.  Out of that they themselves would tithe a portion and give it to Aaron. This was "compensation" for their service in the tent of meeting.

The church of today works in a similar way.. We bring our tithes and gifts to our church and present it as an offering to the Lord.  The offering is the Lord's and He gives it to those who serve in the church.  Not only for the pastors and staff, but for the upkeep of the buildings.. to protect and guard what is the Lord's sanctuary. The one thing that we don't always remember is that what we give should be the best of what we have.. not that we need to offer sacrifices like Israel did, for we have been covered by the One who shed His blood, once for all times.  But, we have been given the privilege to serve the Lord.. and we know that the Lord" loves a cheerful giver.." ( 2 Corinthians 9:7)  Indeed, the Word tells us that God will give to us more so that we can be even more generous in giving to others... and that includes the church for sure!

Father in heaven, You have blessed us with so much and we bring our gifts and offerings to the church that You have established.. for Your will and purposes.. May we give generously and with true thanksgiving in our hearts. May You receive all praise and honor and glory. It is Your "surpassing grace" given to us that enables us to be faithful and obedient in all things. Let Your will be done we pray, in Jesus' name . Amen.