January 31, 2010 - The Visible Presence Of God

Meditation on Exodus 40

Even though the Israelites had failed to be faithful to the covenant they pledged to God at Mt. Sinai, God was gracious to grant them a second chance. He renewed the covenant with them and instructed Moses to remake the two tablets of the Ten Commandments which he broke because of the idolatry of the people. Through the interceding of Moses, God even agreed to provide them with His own presence throughout their journey to the Promised Land. The Israelites had a true repentance. They even cast off all their jewelry on their body. They also freely donated all the materials and labor for the construction of the tabernacle for worship as well as God's sanctuary in the wilderness. Moses carefully recorded the construction of all the tents, boards, sockets, veils and furniture as well other materials for the tabernacle as God had instructed them.

Then finally in this chapter, the whole tabernacle was finished and the priests were consecrated. God did confirm his presence with them by having the pillar of cloud filling the tabernacle. At night, the cloud would turn into pillar of fire above it. This condition was visible before the Israelites throughout their journeys. If the cloud was lifted up, it was a signal that the people should break camp and march forward. (v. 34-48)

This manifestation of God’s presence with His people was marvelous and comforting. I believe it served as an indication that we do need the presence of God in this world. The congregation of Israelites was an assembly of God, they were a forerunner of the church. God dwelt in the midst of their tabernacle. We also need to build churches today to manifest the presence of God. He has promised His presence with us in Matthew 28:20. As the church meet together visibly to praise the Lord, pray together, take the Lord's supper and baptize people, we show the presence of God!