Day 27

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Model of the tabernacle in Timna Valley Park, Israel

Scripture

January 27—Exodus 25-27: A House of Worship for God’s People

Observation

For forty days Moses records God’s words regarding Israel’s place of worship (the tabernacle) and pattern of worship. The blueprint includes the furniture, coverings, curtains and courtyard of the tabernacle that must be built “in the manner I showed you on the mountain” (26:30). The description moves from the inside to the outside, reflecting not the perspective of man looking in, but of God looking out—the God who desires to dwell among his people.

Application

At a glance, today’s reading may seem like a long list of unimportant details. You may feel like you’re lost in a forest of acacia wood, lampstands, and ram’s skins! But don’t miss the point of the passage. These are instructions for building God’s house, and that makes every detail significant. It is to be a beautiful house, one that causes each worshiper to praise God for his splendor and holiness.

Many centuries later King David would declare, “Ascribe to the Lord the glory due his name; worship the Lord in the splendor of his holiness” (Psalm 29:2). David, too, realized that God deserved a special house that mirrored his greatness.

Today those beautiful buildings no longer exist. So where is God dwelling now? He is living in the hearts of those who put their trust in him (1 Corinthians 6:19-20). You are God’s tabernacle today! And that means some “spring cleaning” may be in order. Is there a habit that needs to change, or a corner of your life that needs attention? Take a few minutes to sweep your “tabernacle” clean. Then as a reminder, flip your calendar ahead a month, pick a day, and write: “Have you swept lately?”

Prayer

Dear God, thank you for guiding us in our prayers to you and in our Bible reading so that we may discover your will for us today. Help us keep your dwelling place in our heart pure and clear. In Jesus name, amen!

Replica of the Ark of the Covenant in George Washington Masonic National Memorial









© Odessa Mathis about my Father's business! 2019

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