They are words of priestly blessing, for it is part of the work of priests to bless the people: “Tell Aaron and his sons, ‘This is how you are to bless the Israelites’” (Num. 6:23). One thinks of Melchizedek as he blessed Abraham and of our Lord himself, “a high priest for ever, in the order of Merlchizedek” (Heb. 6:20). “Today,” says Andrew Murray in a memorable comment, “He comes to meet thee, as thou returnest from the battle weary and faint. Bow before Him, and let Him bless thee!”
It is frequently the privilege of Christian ministers to utter these words of blessing - their privilege, but not their sole prerogative, for we believe in the priesthood of all believers. Let them give the words their full meaning, and then the blessers and the blessed will be able to sing.
Enough, this covers all my wants
And so I rest
For what I cannot, He can see
And in His care I saved shall be,
Forever blest.
(Joseph Parker)
“The Lord bless you, and keep you; The Lord make His face shine on you, And be gracious to you; The Lord lift up His countenance on you, And give you peace.’”
Numbers 6:24-26 NASB1995
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