The Place of Affection

The history of the locket is quite interesting, but at the same time, not very surprising.  The traditional heart shape holds the idea of someone else's heart resting on yours.  Since the Victorian era they have been known to contain locks of hair, ashes, pictures - something to represent a loved one (more info here). 

Exodus 28:29 - Aaron shall carry the names of the sons of Israel in the breastpiece of judgment over his heart when he enters the holy place, for a memorial before the Lord continually.

This verse holds such significance for our lives today, but first, let's go over the background.  Scofield reminds us that the heart is "the place of affection" which can be seen when we return to the definition of the Hebrew word (Strong's).  You see, Aaron was to be the first high priest and God was giving Moses directions to prepare Aaron for this service - including what his attire should include.  Therefore, when Aaron went before the Lord he would have the names of the sons of Israel upon his heart (his place of affection).  But the amazing part of all of this?  Christ is our high priest! And He bears our names upon His heart!  I am literally in awe of this idea - every day, every single moment, Christ bears our names very near and dear to His heart, to His place of affection.  As I thought about this, I immediately thought of the modern day locket.  I'm sure each of us knows someone who has lost a loved one and carries their picture (or something similar) in a locket so that that loved one is with them, resting on their heart, every single moment.  That is only a minuscule view of Christ's love for us.  His love truly is awesome and amazing.  I am so thankful.  

Only one question remains: "How near should Christ's name be to our hearts, since He is pleased to lay our names so near to His!?" (Henry, emphasis added).  

I challenge you to be conscience of how near Christ is to your heart today.  Take a moment now to reflect on your actions this morning - was Christ near to your heart?  Do the same before you go to bed tonight.  And make an effort to bring Christ nearer and dearer tomorrow!