Numbers 4:7 - Bread that is always in the Lord’s presence

Numbers 4:7 - Bread that is always in the Lord’s presence

Bread embodies a few ideals of the traditional Jewish culture.  One of those is fellowship.  It is worthy to note that in the Lord’s commandments (“this is to be a permanent practice for all the generations” – [Leviticus 23:41]), there are mandatory days of rest and celebration – in fellowship.

The entire community of Israel was to participate in these ritual celebrations.  Left to their own devices, they would most likely have chosen to work or spend their time focused on other things; but as their God so wisely noted, it was important for them to be in fellowship.  Fellowship brings forth unity and if we have ever learned anything from Animal Planet, it should be that when one gazelle/ fish/wildebeest/human is alone, they are easy prey for a hunter.  On the converse, when the gazelles/fish/wildebeest/humans are united, the hunter has a terribly difficult time getting one, as he often becomes confused and frustrated; it appears as if the only way to really get one of them and devour them is to separate them from the pack.

The community of Israel was not so different from this idea.  With enemies all around, seeking to sack their riches and plunder their possessions; with the Adversary always thwarting the people of God throughout history (sin entering the world, trying to kill off the blessed offspring, the Great Flood, Tower of Babel, etc.), it becomes vastly imperative that these people remain united – which comes through fellowship.

Also, breaking bread was a means of blessing and giving thanks (1 Corinthians 11:24). The phrase “baruch ata Adonai, Eloheinu Melech ha'olam, hamotzi lechem, min ha aretz” or “blessed are you God, O, our God.  King of the universe who produces our bread of the Earth” was the common thing to say among the Jewish people as they said this while breaking the bread in order to give thanks and proclaim blessing over the people (Congregation Rodef Shalom).

Now, having looked at the superficial meaning of bread in Jewish ancient custom, we begin to see its importance.  More important than the bread we eat every day at least.  But to add another candy to bag, we look at this: this bread was always in the presence of God.  What does that mean?  This is significant in understand how God would have us relate to each other and to Him.  In His presence, He would invite us to fellowship and be in harmony and unity with each other, the body of Christ (Romans 12:16, Romans 12:5) as well as have us give thanks and bless one another (1 Thessalonians 5:18, Matthew 5:44*).

* You might think “that was a weird verse to choose”, but like Jesus might phrase it “if you are to bless your enemies and those who curse you, how much more blessings ought you to pronounce over those who are your friends and family?”