So Aaron did as Moses said, and ran into the midst of the assembly. The plague had already started among the people, but Aaron offered the incense and made atonement for them. Numbers 16:47
Things were out of control. The Israelites were barred from entering the promised land, and they were facing forty years of living in the desert. Pockets of dissension began to rise up, and God took quick action. Among the rebels were Korah and his followers, who were swallowed alive by the earth. The rest of the people blamed Moses, and without much warning, people began to die. God had sent a plague.
Moses and Aaron responded. Facing death, Aaron literally ran into the midst of the plague with incense to make atonement.
Could you imagine what it would be like? To run into the midst of a crowd where people are dying around you? Aaron knew that inaction on his part would result in complete ruin. What courage it took to face the very wrath of God.
Lord, sometimes I feel like my life is full of dissension. It seems like a plague has begun to spread, and it will take courageous men to counter it. The discouragement around me is great; things appear to be out of control. Morale seems to dip lower with every passing day. Without courage on the part of a few, utter ruin could result. Many lives can be devastated by this discouragement.
Give us courage. Give us wisdom. Forgive our arrogance, and draw us to You. There are many in our midst who don't really know You. Many are searching. Show Yourself, Father, and be glorified.