Monday’s reading was Exodus 26-27, with 26 dealing with details on the making of the tabernacle. Going back to chapter 25:8-9 it stated, “And let them make me a sanctuary, that I may dwell in their midst. Exactly as I show you concerning the pattern of the tabernacle, and of all its furniture, so you shall make it.” Exactly as I show you was an important statement when you look at the details being given. The Hebrew writer stated that Moses was careful to do just that (Hebrews 8:5).
When we think of the Jews and a worship place for God, we tend to think of Solomon’s temple and the massive undertaking of that project. But here, with this temporary dwelling place, it was still a huge undertaking. For a people wandering through the wilderness, making fine curtains with expensive dyes, gold clasps, bronze clasps, goat hair weaving, ram skins, etc etc., was quite a task. Materials and workmanship for this project were difficult for a city, much less a wandering people, but God provided.
The tabernacle was ornate for a temporary dwelling and I have often wondered about the difficulty of setting up and taking down, then moving, such a structure. However, that would never be seen as a burden — IF — they saw the tabernacle as intended. It was a dwelling place for God as well as a place of worship to Him.
We should think likewise. Our service to God is not a burden (1 John 5:3), but a privilege. We should treat it as such, coming before Him with thanksgiving! Psalm 95:2, “Let us come into his presence with thanksgiving; let us make a joyful noise to him with songs of praise!”
