The Priestly Blessing Breakdown

I was reading this morning and the study Bible (NIV) I use broke down the Priestly Blessing (Num. 6:24-26) and made me think about it as I never had before. I thought I would share it so here it is!

"Five parts conveyed hope that God would (1) bless and keep them (favor and protect); (2) make his face shine upon them (be pleased); (3) be gracious (merciful and compassionate); (4) turn his face toward them (give his approval); (5) give peace."

I can't even attempt to remember how many times I have heard this blessing. I grew up going (sporadically) to several Lutheran churches and watching Robert Schuller and the Crystal Cathedral on TV so, if you are familiar with either of those 2 things, you know what I'm talking about! 

Seeing this familiar blessing broken down in this simple manner has shined new light on it for me and, therefore, a deeper meaning. I hope this does the same for anyone else who reads it!