“So all the work on the Tabernacle, the tent of meeting, was completed. The Israelites did everything just as the Lord commanded Moses.”
(Exodus 3:32 NIV)
Today I read all the details that were meticulously tended to in the manufacturing of the Tabernacle. It struck me that the description of craftsmanship was exactly like that of the God instruction in chapters prior. What is repeated is important, especially in scripture. The Israelites had done just as God had told them!
It’s a bit bewildering how the Israelites sometimes got it so very right; following divine protocol down to the very last detail. Yet other times, they completely blew it! Examples of exhaustive obedience? The Passover meal and evacuation of Egypt, the Tabernacle fabrication and assembly. Examples of total failure to follow through with divine directive? The six day manna harvest and the golden calf.
It’s tempting to pronounce judgement on this incredibly inconsistent people group. At least until we stop and examine our own exodus from sin. I can’t speak for anyone else, but sometimes I get it really, really right and other times I totally blow it, as though I’ve never absorbed any of God’s Word at all. Today’s reading in Romans reminds me of my many shortfalls in obedience.
“You are so proud of knowing the law, but you dishonor God by breaking it.” (Romans 2:23 NLT)
I look at the Israelites and myself, and I am glad all over again for a God of grace and mercy. He alone loves us straight out of sin and into right relationship with Him. I need that. The Israelites needed that. We all need that. And God alone offers Himself to cover our trespass and keep moving us toward righteousness.
“Don’t you see how wonderfully kind, tolerant and patient God is with you? Does this mean nothing to you? Can’t you see that His kindness is inteneded to turn you from your sin?” (Romans 2:4 NLT)
Dear Lord, we see it. Thank You for loving us straight out of sin and into right relationship. Thank You for Your kindness, tolerance and patience, but also for continuing to move the bar. You don’t leave us where You found us. You don’t let us sit in our dirty diaper of trespass. Instead You lovingly insist that we grow up and into righteousness. Thank You for pulling us further and further into Your transformative presence. Amen.