“So Aaron shall bear the names of the sons of Israel in the breastpiece of judgment on his heart, when he goes into the Holy Place, to bring them to regular remembrance before the LORD.”

Exodus 28:29 (ESV)

The ephod that the high priest wore was like a colorful apron. It was made for glory and for beauty. Aaron would wear it as he ministered before the LORD. On his shoulders, engraved on two onyx stones, were the twelve names of the sons of Israel, six names on each shoulder. Aaron would bear the names of the people as he went before the LORD. This speaks of bearing the burden of governing the people.

Chained to the ephod was the breastplate. This was made of colorfully embroidered linen that was folded in half to form a square. On it were twelve precious stones with the names of the twelve tribes of Israel engraved on them. In this way the people would be over Aaron’s heart, the place of affection.

Therefore, as Aaron went before the LORD, he would bear the weight of judging the people on his shoulders and his affection for them over his heart. This was how he would represent the children of Israel as he ministered to the LORD.

All of this pictures our great High Priest, Jesus Christ. He bears the weight of governing us on his shoulders. He is the Head and Judge of the church.

“For unto us a Child is born; unto us a Son is given. And the government will be upon His shoulder.”

Isaiah 9:6 (NKJV)

But He also bears us over His heart, for He cherishes us as His own blood-bought Bride. Therefore, He is always standing in the gap, interceding and pleading for us.

“He is also able to save to the uttermost those who come to God through Him, since He always lives to make intercession for them.”

Hebrews 7:25 (NKJV)

You may feel like your life is falling apart. You may not know where to turn for help. But remember that you have a High Priest in heaven who is able to save you to the uttermost. As He prayed for Peter, when Satan desired to sift him like wheat, so He is praying for you! He knows your name. He cares for you, so don’t be afraid to cast your cares on Him.

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