"Aaron and his sons must wear them whenever they enter the Tent of Meeting or approach the altar to minister in the Holy Place, so that they will not incur guilt and die." Exodus 28:43a
Most of us have heard the joke about mothers reminding children to put on clean underwear in case they are in an accident, but how many have actually been told that? How do you think you would feel, however, if someone said, "Oh, by the way. Make sure you put on clean underwear, or you might die."?
This is what Aaron and his sons were told when God detailed His plans for them as priests. Each ordinance God gave was to be followed strictly - even down to wearing the proper undergarments, or they could die. Entering God's presence was not to be taken lightly. The priests needed to understand the truth. If they disregarded God in their ritual, the people would disregard Him in their every day.
Lord, have we forgotten how special it is to enter Your presence? Your Holy Spirit dwells within us, so You are always present. But do we take You for granted? Do we understand what it is to be consecrated or face death? Do we understand the great gift You have given us - the ability to freely approach You clothed in the garments of salvation - covered by the blood of Christ?
Father, thank You for paving the way for common man to enter the Holiest Place. You have made us clean - all the way down to our underwear, so we might spend eternity by Your side.
Holy, Holy, Holy is the Lord God Almighty!