A PLACE TO CALL HOME

"Then have them make a sanctuary for me, and I will dwell among them. Make this tabernacle and all its furnishings exactly like the pattern I will show you." — Exodus 25:8-9

After God had given the people His law in the Ten Commandments and they had agreed that "Everything the LORD has said we will do," God once again summoned Moses to meet with Him atop Mt. Sinai. This time God told Moses to have the people build Him a place where He could dwell among them.

This tabernacle, which means "tent," "place of dwelling," or "sanctuary," would be the sacred place where God would meet His people, and accept their worship and sacrifices. Located at the very heart of their camp, the tabernacle would be an unmistakable powerful visual statement of God's presence among the people. His presence was visible to them as a pillar of cloud by day, and a pillar of fire at night.

God knew His people needed this visual evidence if they were to become His people. This moveable tent would help them sense God's guidance and protection as they journeyed to the Promised Land. It also would encourage them to be obedient — a reminder the people needed, especially after building a golden calf to worship in Moses' absence. Out of sight, out of mind!

But the tabernacle was more than just a dwelling place. It was also an object lesson in God's relationship to the people. God told Moses to create the tabernacle exactly the way He commanded. It was not to stray from His blueprint: Make this tabernacle and all its furnishings exactly like the pattern I will show you" (v. 9). The ensuing specific instructions were not intended to be a burden to the people, but rather to show God's unquestionable authority and holiness. They were meant to remind the people that they could only come to God on His terms — not on their own.

The very fact that God desired a place to reside among His people should be an encouragement for us all. God is not some distant, disinterested caretaker of His creation. No, the God of the Bible shows over and over His desire for a relationship with His people. He wants to live among us, even in our hearts. As we spend time with God in prayer and in studying His word, we are welcoming Him to "tabernacle" with us and be our Sustainer and Protector.

Invite God to "tabernacle" with you today.

With prayers for shalom, peace,


Rabbi Yechiel Eckstein
President