God with us to Dwell | Dec. 12
Exodus 25:1-8, 29:43-46
Andrew Geddert | Worship Pastor
A living room says a lot about its host. Every item of decor placed, fabric chosen, and colour carefully selected speaks to the taste and preference of its curator. Has the room been warmly lit to create a cozy and inviting atmosphere? Has it been cleaned and organized in such a way as to beckon one inside? A living room presents a glimpse of the nature and character of its host.
In Exodus 25, Yahweh instructed the people of Israel to build Him a sanctuary at Mt. Sinai. It was made to be the living room of a divine king, fully furnished with precious metals, stones, skins, and other items denoting royalty. The ark of the covenant was like God’s throne, signifying that the King of kings will live there.
While the Lord had appeared to His people before in fire and cloud, He had not taken up residence in this way since walking in the Garden with Adam and Eve. Of the Tabernacle, Exodus 29:43-45 says, “There I will meet with the people… I will dwell among the people of Israel and will be their God.” What the Tabernacle intimates about God is that He desires for people to experience and know His holy presence—even though their sins should repel Him away.
This was the Lord’s gracious accommodation. Instead of remaining distant, He chose to set up His living room right in Israel’s midst so they would know He was the Lord their God. God has accommodated His presence even further to you and me, sending His Son into the world. He came into our midst, despite our sin, so we can experience and know Him. Just as the Tabernacle did, Jesus reveals God’s desire to dwell among us—even in us. By sending the Holy Spirit, God makes His dwelling within each willing heart that would receive Him. If you have placed your faith in Christ, your heart is now His living room. That is cause for incredible peace and comfort this Advent season. It is also cause to ask ourselves, “Does my heart reflect the nature and character of the One who I claim is its host?”
PRAYER: Lord, thank you for the gift of your presence in Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit. Help me find comfort in knowing that you dwell within me, and make room in my heart for the furnishings of your will and character.