Our Morning Routine
Yael Eckstein | August 11, 2023
Then he is to take off these clothes and put on others, and carry the ashes outside the camp to a place that is ceremonially clean. The fire on the altar must be kept burning; it must not go out. Every morning the priest is to add firewood and arrange the burnt offering on the fire and burn the fat of the fellowship offerings on it. — Leviticus 6:11-12
Prayer in Judaism is defined as “the work of the heart,” which profoundly changes the nature of prayer from one of entreating God to an act that transforms who we are—not what God does. These devotions focus on different facets of prayer and what lessons we can learn about the power of our prayers.
Wellness experts all emphasize the importance of starting each day with a healthy routine, whether that means meditating, exercising, writing in a gratitude journal, or spending a few minutes outside. Looking back to the COVID lockdowns, I remember what a difference it made to my family if we all got up, took a shower, and got dressed—even if we had nowhere to go!
In Leviticus, we learn about the daily service of the priests. While our service takes on different forms today, we can still look at their “morning routine” as a paradigm for how we should begin every day serving God.
Our Morning Routine
First things first, the priest changed clothes. While we take off our pajamas and get dressed for the day, I believe that this verse hints to something deeper. By dressing up, the priest gave respect to the task at hand. We not only put on fresh clothes, but also a fresh attitude. When we look at the day ahead with purpose and joy, we set ourselves up for success.
Next, the priest began each day by clearing away the ashes from the day before. We need to acknowledge the past and let go of what no longer serves us. Yesterday may have been a bad day; it’s time to make room for the opportunities coming our way today.
Finally, the priest fed the fire on the altar with fresh wood. We, too, must give something of ourselves to God. New light is ready to come into our lives every day, but we need to draw it down with prayer and service.
Your Turn:
Take five minutes each morning to let go of negativity, set a positive intention, and pray to God to keep His light burning in our lives.