Readings for today: Exodus 25-28
Today we read about the construction of the Tabernacle and it’s easy to get lost in all the talk of cubits and curtain loops. It’s easy to lose sight of the bigger picture when we’re reading about the construction of lamp stands and the ark of the covenant. But if we take a step back and survey the scene, what we realize is that God is literally giving Israel a portable temple! The Tabernacle is God’s fifth wheel! It will be His home on earth. His dwelling place among His people. Wherever they go, He will be with them! Wherever they find themselves, God will be there. They will have the opportunity to meet with Him. Hear His voice. Worship at His feet. “And let them make me a sanctuary, that I may dwell in their midst...There I will meet with you, and from above the mercy seat, from between the two cherubim that are on the ark of the testimony, I will speak with you about all that I will give you in commandment for the people of Israel.” (Ex. 25:8, 22)
One of the many things I love about the Christian faith is that it’s not bound to any particular time or place. Our God is no simple tribal god. He rules the universe. He reigns over all He has made. The earth is His and the fullness thereof. We don’t have to “go anywhere” to meet with God because He makes sure to “tabernacle” with us. This is what the Apostle John means when he writes, “And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen his glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth” (John 1:14) The Greek word for “dwelt” means “tabernacled” which means Jesus Himself is now the tabernacle of God! Jesus is Immanuel - God with us - no matter where we go or where we find ourselves. Through the Holy Spirit, He lives in our hearts which means we are never, ever alone and that’s good news, amen? Because it’s not good for us to be alone.
Friends, the most important thing to remember as you wade through all the blueprints and construction details of these chapters is that they are reflection of God’s love. A demonstration of His commitment to you and to me and to His people down throughout the ages. He will be our God. We will be His people. He will not let us suffer in our sin forever. He will not let death have the victory. He will unite all things in Himself. He will bring all things together. He will bring all people together! He is at work even now in our hearts. Making Himself known to us. Making Himself known through us. God is just as present here on earth as He is in heaven. Embrace Him. Let His presence fill your heart and soul with hope.
Readings for tomorrow: None