“On the next day Moses went into the tent of the testimony, and behold, the staff of Aaron for the house of Levi had sprouted and put forth buds and produced blossoms, and it bore ripe almonds” (Numbers 17:8 ESV).
The Lord had the heads of house from each of the twelve tribes carve their names into their staffs and Moses placed them in the tabernacle. The next day, all the rods were brought out, “and behold,” only Aaron’s staff had bloomed and brought forth almonds. This was done to put to rest the complaints of those who rebelled against Moses’ and Aaron’s leadership, and therefore God’s leadership as well. Only God could cause a dead stick to bud, blossom and bring forth fruit.
The Hebrew word for “almond” relates to “watching” or “awakening,” as the almond tree is the first to bloom, signaling the arrival of spring. Similarly, the prophet Jeremiah saw a vision of an almond branch and the Lord told him it signified His intent to “watch” over His Word and to make it come to pass (Jer. 1:11-12).
Aaron’s rod points us to Christ. He is the fulfillment of God’s Word, the One who brings forth life from death. Like the almond blossom, His resurrection signals the end of winter and the beginning of new life for all who trust in Him.
Just as God affirmed Aaron’s calling, He has also confirmed Jesus as our Great High Priest. In Him, we see the power of resurrection life. No matter how barren or lifeless our circumstances seem, God can bring fruitfulness and renewal. We can trust in Christ as the source of new and abundant life.
PRAYER: Heavenly Father, thank You for Jesus, who brings life from death and fulfills Your Word. Help us to trust in Him completely and to watch for the ways You are working in our lives. May we remain faithful, knowing that You are always faithful to Your promises. In Jesus’ name, Amen.