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EXODUS 24–26

Week 5, Day 5

These chapters may bore a modern reader. Who cares, we ask, about the details of the ark of the covenant or the materials that went into the tabernacle with its table and lampstand and framework and curtains? Do these things matter to us today?

Actually, yes. Centuries later the writer of the New Testament Letter to the Hebrews will talk about these matters because he sees in them a foreshadowing of the new way of life in Jesus Christ. “This is a symbol of the present time” (Hebrews 9:9). The Greek word that in this verse is translated “symbol” is usually translated “parable.” Perhaps it will help if we will look upon these detailed descriptions as a physical parable of the glory and completeness that can be found in Christ.

So the Christian reader has an advantage over the ancient counterpart. The original reader knew the material was important because of the repeated command that it should be made “according to the pattern . . . which is being shown you on the mountain” (25:40; 25:9; 26:30). It is important for us because we have encountered the reality for which the original was only a shadow.

The intricate details of these chapters will also remind us that it is an awesome thing to appear before the Lord of the universe. Let it be done rightly and reverently, as befits such an engagement.

PRAYER: Lord of my life, give me a proper sense of your power and majesty, lest I become casual in your presence; to your glory. Amen.

What articles in a contemporary house of worship might seem comparable to the ark, the table, the lampstand, and the curtains?