Aaron ’s Rod

“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.” Numbers 17:8

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 chapter 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 begins with a dispute among the leaders of Israel (Numbers 16:3) regarding the ministry of Moses and Aaron. In response to their complaints, God instructed Moses to collect their staffs, each bearing the name of the 12 tribes. The staffs were kept overnight in the tabernacle and the next day Moses had 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 and He 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, they 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. However, as the body of Christ we must be careful to serve Him with humility and work together respecting the unique individual gifts of other fellow believers. The Apostle Paul makes it clear in 1 Corinthians 12:4-5: “Now there are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit, and there are differences of administrations, but the same Lord.”

Let’s examine our lives. Are we producing fruit in our lives that will bring honor 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.