Exodus 39-40
Psalm 7
Matthew 21
“Then the cloud covered the tent of meeting, and the glory of the Lord filled the tabernacle. 35 And Moses was not able to enter the tent of meeting because the cloud had settled on it, and the glory of the Lord filled the tabernacle” (Exodus 40:34)
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As we wrap up our time in Exodus today, we end with an uplifting picture. After slavery in Egypt, rejection, persecution, wandering, many poor choices, and hard labor, the work was finished. The curtain for the gate was hung. People washed up. Burnt offerings and incense in place. “And the glory of the LORD filled the tabernacle”. Since the tabernacle functioned as a mobile dwelling place of God, His presence filling it symbolized His presence with His people. Yesterday we read of God as our shield and righteous judge in Psalm 7. Earlier we read of Him hearing our cries. Today we read of Him pursuing a close relationship with His people as His presence enveloped the sacred place He designed.
In Exodus 40:38, the last verse of Exodus and all its adventures, I noticed the phrase the “cloud of the LORD” and did a bit of a word study to see where else that comes up in scripture, knowing it was a familiar one. One of those places is Isaiah 4:5 where we find a prophecy reminiscent of the cloud filling the tabernacle, and also perhaps with some foreshadowing of a future hope. Isaiah 4:5 says
“Then the LORD will create over all of Mount Zion and over her assemblies a cloud of smoke by day and a glowing flame of fire by night. For over all the glory there will be a canopy.”
Mount Zion is a term that references Jerusalem, and Isaiah paints us a picture of Jerusalem canopied by a cloud of smoke. Today, Jerusalem is often polluted with clouds of smoke from war and weapons. But, Isaiah tells us there is more to come for Mount Zion made possible through the promised Messiah who will build a bridge to. . .a new Jerusalem. From the last chapter of Exodus to its connection to the end of the Bible itself, I can think of no better thought to fix my eyes and heart right now than,
“I saw the Holy City, the new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride beautifully dressed for her husband. 3 And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, “Look! God’s dwelling place is now among the people, and he will dwell with them. They will be his people, and God himself will be with them and be their God. 4 ‘He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death’[b] or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.”
5 He who was seated on the throne said, “I am making everything new!” Then he said, “Write this down, for these words are trustworthy and true.”
(Revelation 21:2-5)
Reflection:
Consider God’s presence in your life today.
Pray for the coming kingdom and a day when God will wipe our tears.
Rest in His canopy of love and protection.
PRAYER:
Dear Heavenly Father, we praise You for Your perfect plan of salvation which mankind, including myself, is not worthy or deserving of, which we have proven over and over again. And yet, You continue to reveal Yourself and Your plan to us, giving purpose and peace in a troubled world, and hope and joy for the coming kingdom. Thank You for Your presence, direction and love. Help me to pursue You and Your presence and Your Kingdom with all that You have given me. In Your Son’s precious name I pray, Amen.
Seek Grow Love 