THEOSISCyrill of Alexandria
Observe how the sacred lineage is not esteemed among the communities, set apart not only by their duty of servitude but also by a divergence in aspiration. For those who pursue a mundane existence, fixated on worldly matters and yearning for fleeting, ephemeral delights, it can rightly be expressed, ‘This is your allotment; this is your share, the portion that has been assigned to you by Me, declares the Lord’ (Jeremiah 13:25). Conversely, for those who choose a path of holiness and purity, already selected for their righteousness, the appropriate declaration is, ‘In their territory you shall not have an inheritance, nor shall you possess a share among them; I am your portion and your inheritance,’ says the Lord (Num. 18:20; Deut. 10:9; 18:1).
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Similarly, the Redeemer responded to an individual who inquired about attaining ‘eternal life’: ‘You are familiar with the commandments, “You shall not commit adultery, you shall not murder, you shall not steal,” and others of that nature.’ After this man affirmed his adherence to these commands and inquired, ‘What else do I still lack?’ Jesus replied, ‘If you desire to be complete, go, sell your possessions and give to the needy; then you will have treasure in heaven; and come, follow Me’ (Mark 10:17-21; Matthew 19:16-21). Therefore, those who aspire to serve God undistracted must distance themselves from worldly pursuits, regard Him as their sole inheritance, and immerse themselves in hopeful expectation of Him, as captured in the Psalms: ‘Delight yourself in the Lord, ... Commit your way to the Lord, and He will bring it to pass’ (Psalm 36:4-5). Thus, the offerings for the Levites are designated in recognition of their labor in service, for their work yields rewards for the saints, along with chosen dignities and glorious honors. As the Savior encourages, ‘Do not worry about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink, nor about your body, what you will wear ... But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you’ (Matthew 6:25-33).