Numbers 3:14–39, March 21, 2025 (Friday)

"All the Levites who were registered by Moses and Aaron at the Lord's command, by their families—all the males a month old or more—numbered 22,000."(Numbers 3:39 )

This morning, I found myself staring into space, wondering, "Is time passing too quickly?" As I reflected on the week, starting with the thought, "I can't believe it's already Friday," I realized it had indeed been a busy week. Yet simultaneously, tasks I haven't completed began to surface in my mind, one after another.

Time moves relentlessly forward, and I started questioning whether I'm using it wisely. I paused to make plans, but instead found myself listing all the things still waiting to be done.

Life is full—meeting people, church responsibilities, and professional obligations. Last week, what consumed most of my energy was coordinating with travel agencies and directly calling airlines regarding our pilgrimage. These efforts became necessary because some participants suddenly couldn't attend due to serious health challenges, including cancer and dementia.

I couldn't bring myself to charge cancellation penalties to people facing such difficult circumstances. When thinking about these individuals who not only can't travel but are battling illness, asking for penalty fees seemed unconscionable. It would have added pain to their already difficult situation, and my heart wouldn't allow it.

The greater challenge arose when I found myself mediating between the travel agency and the airline. I kept wondering, "Why am I having to do this?" Trying to understand the agency's perspective while approaching the situation logically only intensified my frustration. While the airline was cooperative, the agency remained pessimistic, and harmonizing these differing viewpoints with my own was no simple task.

Beyond these logistical matters, once Wednesday Bible study concludes, the week seems to accelerate even more. Preparing sermons and organizing essential ministries makes the swift passage of time all too apparent.

Today's Scripture reading focuses on the gathering of the tribe of Levi. God instructed that all male children over a month old from each family be counted to form the tribe of Levi, who would serve in the temple. This established the faith practice of dedicating firstborn sons to God (as females weren't included in biblical censuses). Many pastors likely began their ministry in response to such family dedications or vows.

Some have asked if I also had such a dedication. For me, it wasn't about my children, but rather when we moved to Orinda, I made a promise before God: If He guided us through this challenging journey, I would embrace any ministry the church needed. This is why I'm proceeding without hesitation to launch an English worship service this July.

One significant hurdle is finding the right person to lead this ministry. Daily, I check for responses to emails I've sent nationwide, hoping to connect with someone suitable. Many tell me how difficult finding such a person will be.

I often ask myself, "Is anything in life ever easy?" Yet I'm reassured that since God placed this vision in my heart, He will guide the path forward. Even with a sacred vow, the journey isn't simple. Many pastors who entered seminary because of their parents' dedications also walked difficult paths. Though 22,000 Levites gathered in obedience to God's command, their lives and ministries were likely filled with challenges.

Nothing worthwhile comes easily. Once we commit to something, responsibility and effort are required. Things don't materialize instantly. But that's life—and through all the struggles and efforts, we come to recognize that it's by God's grace that we are guided.

You've worked hard this week!As the weather improves and days lengthen, I hope you'll take a moment each day to gaze at the sky and appreciate the flowers blooming in the field. Time may fly, but we walk this journey together. This shared path is stronger and more reassuring than any anxiety time might bring.

Meditation

Even the work entrusted to us by God is not easily accomplished.

Intercessory Prayer

1. There will be early morning prayer at church on Saturday at 6 a.m., also available via Zoom. The Zoom link has been shared in each small group's chatroom.

2. This Sunday, after worship service, we will have small group meetings. Please pray for Open Church to grow through these gatherings.