First, given wholly to God's ministry (1-10). Aaron had four sons who had been ordained as priests. But God struck down Nadab and Abihu for their sin (Lev. 10). Only Eleazar and Ithamar served as priests during Aaron's lifetime. The other Levites assisted the priests in the work of the tabernacle on behalf of the Israelites. God called the Levites to be given wholly to the ministry of the tabernacle. This was a great privilege and a lifelong commitment. Second, 'they are to be mine' (11-20). When God struck down the firstborn humans and animals in Egypt, he claimed the firstborn as his own. Thereafter firstborn males all belonged to the LORD (Ex. 13:2,15). God took the Levites in place of all the firstborn males born to Israelite women. The LORD claimed the Levites as his own, substituting the Levites for the firstborn males. God also counted the Levites who would serve in various capacities at the tabernacle.
Application: Lord, thank you for Jesus who died in my place. Let me be wholly given to you.
One Word: We belong to the LORD