Day 42.  Reading Exodus 36 – 38. 

Read the scripture for today. What do you learn about God? Share what you learn with others.

Exodus 36.

The people of Israel freely brought their contributions: gold, silver, bronze, jewels, cloth, yarn, animal skins, spices, oils, and acacia wood. They brought more and more, twice daily, to Moses, who gave it all to Bezalel and Oholiab, who distributed it to the craftsmen. 

Finally, there was enough, even MORE than enough, and still, the people offered their gifts. Moses had to issue a command, “Let no man or woman do anything more for the contribution for the sanctuary.“

Bezalel, Oholiab, and all the men (and women) got to work.  Oh, how wonderful to have a project! Something to look forward to – a beautiful sanctuary where their God would live among them. 

The Tabernacle tent was constructed first, using embroidered cloths and tanned skins for beauty and waterproofing. It was hung securely with loops and clasps on pillars, posts, and bars and set on bases. 

Exodus 37.

Next, the furniture for the inside of the Tabernacle tent was made. All the pieces were constructed of pure gold or wood overlaid with gold.  The Ark of the Covenant, with its Mercy Seat and Cherubim (representing the “throne of God” on earth), and its carrying poles, was to be placed in the inner room by itself. 

For the larger room of the Tabernacle, they made the Table for Bread, the Golden Lampstand, and the Altar of Incense with their utensils, supplies, and carrying poles. 

Exodus 38.

Outside the Tabernacle tent were two “furniture” items made of bronze or wood covered with bronze.  Just inside the courtyard gate was the massive bronze Alter of Burnt Offering (almost nine feet square and nearly five feet tall), with its grates, utensils, and carrying poles. 

Between the Alter and the Tabernacle tent was the Bronze Basin, or Laver, atop a bronze stand.  The basin itself was made from “the mirrors of the ministering women who served the entrance.”  (I’m not sure who these women were [cleaning ladies?], but they are mentioned in 1 Samuel 2:22).

Next, the wood and metal workers, with those who made and embroidered linen, constructed the outer courtyard hangings on the pillars, bars, and bases. They even designed the cords and pegs that secured the posts, even in the wind.

Moses also commanded that the Levites, under the direction of Aaron’s son, Ithamar, record the materials and construction (for future generations and for repairs?).  The total weights of the gold, silver, and bronze were massive and awesome. 

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If God took such care in the details of His earthly “dwelling place,” can you imagine what “the original” looks like in Heaven??  How wonderful and glorious is our God!