Wednesday, June 13, 2012

Before the Ark or at the Alter


The LORD said to Moses, “Tell the Israelites to bring me an offering…gold, silver and bronze…blue, purple and scarlet yarn and fine linen…spices for the anointing oil and for the fragrant incense…then have them make a sanctuary for me, and I will dwell among them.” (from Exodus 25:1-8) 


Great and Holy God, 

Worship lite is not your standard! 

Sacrificial giving. Painstaking attention to detail. Meticulous craftsmanship. That's how you spelled it out for Moses in Exodus. 

The Ark, the Tabernacle, priestly garments - they represent and evoke your presence. (Exodus 25-28)

I will meet with you and give you all my commands… (from Exodus 25:22)

In a grand cathedral or a clapboard country church we gather for praise, confession and intercession. Yes, my thoughts wander. I can be caught yawning, but worship compels our full attention and participation. You are near. Your presence fills the space. The details matter - the details of our lives - and we listen for your instructions.  Amen.


Artwork credit