February 13th

Exodus 37:1-39:31

Construction on the Tabernacle continued. Bezalel and Oholiab made the Ark of the Covenant and its cover — the place of atonement (or mercy seat), the Table of Bread, the Lampstand with all of its utensils, the Altar of Incense with its fragrant spices, the Altar of Offering with all of its utensils, the Wash Basin (or water laver), the Tent of Meeting and Courtyard with their pillars and curtains, the holy garments of the priests and the ephod vest. Thus, all the work of the Tabernacle was completed, just as the Lord commanded Moses.

I’ve often wondered what it must have felt like to be involved with such a work, building the sanctuary of the Lord, knowing that He would dwell there, that He would speak with Moses there, and that He would forgive Israel’s sins there. What a privilege that must have been!

I can imagine that Bezalel and Oholiab did everything to the best of their ability, took all the time they needed to do it right, and made sure that the fine details were given attention. Can you imagine if they would’ve been in a hurry or maybe muffed the measurements, forgotten this or that? What if their work would have been sloppy, a board missing here or an ornament missing there? It would have reflected poorly on their work; but, more importantly, it would have reflected poorly on the Lord Himself. No, we can be certain that these craftsmen did their best to make sure that all was in order, for the glory of God would reside there.

I wonder, do we put that much effort into the house of God today? Do we make sure that all of the details of His sanctuary are given that much attention? Or are we apathetic, cavalier, or lazy in our approach to God’s house? What is our approach to the ministries we provide? Are we meticulous and careful or are we in a hurry, overlooking things, doing enough only to get by, or producing sloppy service to our guests and members? If only we were as dedicated and detailed as Bezalel and Oholiab, that God may be praised by our work in His house. The glory of the Lord would reside there.

Daily Reflection

When a church is disorganized, dilapidated, not clean, poorly attended, or lacking volunteers, these aspects send a message to guests and members alike. What is it?

Why should you care about the Church in general? Why should you be concerned about it portraying an image of excellence?

Every member of the Church is to be a minister, which means that you too play a role in the ministry of your church. Are you involved? Do you attend, do your serve, and do you give your best to ensure that God’s house reflects an image of excellence? Be mindful of the image your church exhibits to members and guests. What is it doing well? Where does it need to improve? The Lord deserves your best, and so does His House. Be diligent to keep it in order.

BiAY.org | Day 44 — 321 Days to Go