Messianic Jewish Counseling Devotional for Couples on Parashat Shemini (Leviticus 9:1-11:47)
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Theme: Holiness, Boundaries, and Drawing Close to God Together
Opening Blessing:
"Blessed are You, Ad-nai our G-d, King of the universe, who sanctifies us with His commandments and commands us to draw near to Him."
Reflection:
In Parashat Shemini, we witness the dedication of the Tabernacle, a time of incredible closeness between G-d and Israel. Aaron and his sons are ordained as priests, and the glory of Ad-nai fills the Mishkan (Tabernacle). However, tragedy strikes when Nadav and Avihu offer "strange fire", something G-d had not commanded, and they lose their lives (Leviticus 10:1-2).
This teaches us that drawing near to G-d requires reverence, obedience, and trust in His ways, not just enthusiasm. In marriage, too, we must build a sacred space between us that honors G-d's instructions. Passion alone is not enough; love must also respect boundaries, honor G-d’s design, and be guided by His Ruach HaKodesh (Holy Spirit). Messiah Yeshua calls us to be a living temple (1 Corinthians 3:16). As a couple, your relationship can reflect the holiness of the Mishkan (tabernacle), a place where G-d's presence dwells when you honor Him together.
Discussion Questions for You and Your Spouse:
Where in our relationship do we feel G-d's presence most strongly?
Are there any "strange fires": actions or habits which we might be offering that distract us from G-d's best for us?
How can we better honor G-d's boundaries and cultivate holiness together?
Activity:
Each of you write a simple prayer dedicating your relationship as a Mishkan (tabernacle), a Tabernacle for G-d's presence. Share your prayers aloud with each other.
Then hold hands and invite the Ruach HaKodesh (Holy Spirit) to fill your marriage anew.
Closing Prayer:
"Abba, thank You for making us one in Your Son, Yeshua. Teach us to honor You in our love, to offer no strange fire but only the worship You desire. May our marriage be a holy dwelling for Your glory. In Yeshua the Messiah, Amen."
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