Extravagance
. . . God loves a cheerful giver.
2 Corinthians 9:7.
God had specifically gifted Bezalel and Oholiab (Exodus 31:1–11) with the ability to create all the marvellous artefacts and clothing to be used in Israel’s appointed system of worship. But the entire nation had the opportunity to contribute. Exodus tells us that Moses asked the people to provide both the materials and their talents to the effort (35:4–19). Moses said, “All who are gifted artisans among you are to come and make everything the Lord has commanded” (v 10). But Moses’ instructions came with this caveat: “Whoever is of a willing heart . . .” (v 5). Participation in the national effort to construct the tabernacle for God was not compulsory, yet it did come with a blessing:
In the book of Exodus, we learn of the extravagant measures employed to construct the tabernacle, including gold thread to make Aaron’s priestly garments. Skilled craftsmen “hammered out thin sheets of gold and cut strands to be worked into the blue, purple and scarlet yarn and fine linen” (Exodus 39:3). What happened to all that exquisite craftsmanship? Did the garments simply wear out? Were they eventually carried off as plunder? Was it all in vain? Not at all! Every aspect of the effort was done because God had given specific instructions to do it.
God has given each of us something to do as well. It may be a simple act of kindness; something to give back to Him as we serve each other. We need not concern ourselves with what will happen to our efforts in the end (1 Corinthians 15:58). Any task done for our Father becomes a thread extending into eternity.
Read
Exodus 39:1–7.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me choose to serve You today willingly in everything I do. In Jesus name. Amen.
Amen