Numbers 20:22–29, May 8, 2025 (Thursday)

“Aaron will be gathered to his people. He will not enter the land I give the Israelites, because both of you rebelled against my command at the waters of Meribah.”

In today’s passage, the Israelites arrive at Mount Hor, at the entrance to the land of Canaan. There, God speaks to Moses and Aaron, declaring: "Aaron will not enter the Promised Land, for his death is near." This was because he, along with Moses, did not fully obey God’s command during the incident at the waters of Meribah.

Following God's instructions, Moses brings Aaron and his son Eleazar to the top of Mount Hor. There, Moses removes Aaron’s priestly garments and puts them on Eleazar, transferring the role of high priest to the next generation. After this, Aaron dies on the mountain, and Moses and Eleazar come down. The entire Israelite community mourns Aaron’s death for thirty days.

This passage describes one of the most ideal forms of death depicted in the Bible. Aaron dies at the time appointed by God, after passing on his priestly role to his son. It made me think—could there be a more perfect ending than this? The image of Aaron passing down everything, including his calling, and then peacefully meeting death, feels complete. If we were to omit the phrase "he did not follow God’s command," Aaron’s death would appear as one of faithful obedience. The passing of the priesthood to Eleazar reflects a seamless generational transition in leadership.

Lately, I have been deeply interested in the topic of death. While death often carries negative connotations—sadness, darkness, or fear—I’ve come to view it in a more hopeful and meaningful light. It feels like a prepared and sacred destination that enriches the life we now live. Life comes in many forms and carries different weights, but death is the one journey common to all, inescapable and fair.

As believers, our confession that faith in Jesus leads to eternal life may sound like conquering death—but in truth, it teaches us to accept death and see that the power of eternal life far surpasses the shadow of death.

To realize that each of us walks daily toward death, without exception, is a deeply humbling truth. It helps us live with more gentleness, turning our eyes toward what we often avoid or overlook. It gives us the gift of simplicity and perspective.

The people of Israel, too, were likely humbled by Aaron’s death. The fact that he died on Mount Hor, just before entering the Promised Land, would have left a strong, symbolic mark on the community. In a moment when the human heart might strive for final achievement, Aaron chose surrender—acknowledging his disobedience, submitting to God’s will, and sharing his final moments with his brother and his son who would continue his mission. This scene provides a powerful vision for how the community of faith should move forward.

Meditation

Have you ever imagined what it would be like to finish your life’s work?Not just death, but a time of retirement or stepping down from a significant role?

Intercessory Prayer

1. Please pray for Yeolin Church, as we dream of growth and revival.Pray that we become a stronger, more loving church that deeply cares for one another.

2. Lift up every generation and ministry—from children, youth, and young adults to adults and the Somaang senior group.