So the cloud of the Lord was over the tabernacle . . . in the sight of all the Israelites during all their travels. (Ex. 40:38)
The creation story in Genesis makes it pretty clear that the earth was God’s handiwork. Everything from light itself to the palm trees to the albatross were spoken into existence off the breath of his tongue. He was the Creator, and the world was his.
As we read this account of God’s tabernacle being built, I am awestruck. Even though the earth was God’s and his presence existed in every nook and cranny, he chose to make his presence even more personal to the Israelites. He wanted a sacred space to exist among them, for them to see him in tangible symbols, and to follow him unwaveringly. And he went to great lengths to do it. The level of detail God put into the plans for his tabernacle would wow any modern-day architect.
But even so, it wasn’t enough. Ages later, God went to even greater lengths to make his love personal. Instead of existing in a cloud for the Israelites alone, he became human—God in one man for all mankind. Friends, that’s how much God loves us! That’s how much he wants to be known by you, to set up camp in your home and heart. He’s a personal, powerful God who will do what it takes to make you his own. And I hope you will let him near, begging him to come close and take up residence in you.
Come near to God; let his abundant love hold you close.
Sarah E. Westfall resides in Fort Wayne, Indiana, with her husband Ben and their four boys. She really wants a nap.
© 2020 Wesleyan Publishing House. Reprinted from Light from the Word. Used by permission.
Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®.
