After reminding Israel that no work was to be done on the Sabbath day (1-3), Moses called the Israelites to contribute to a project that would involve the whole community—the building of the tabernacle of the LORD’s presence among his people. This was an important practical aspect of becoming the people of God. A great variety of materials, including cloth, precious metals, and oils, were needed (5-9), and a great variety of skills were needed for working with those materials (10). When everyone reflected on what they had to give (21) and brought it willingly (24-25), the work would be done beautifully.

The tabernacle was just a visible symbol of the spiritual presence of God that we have in Christ. But the church of Jesus still needs people who give materially and work on practical projects for the ministry—including cleaning and maintaining buildings and providing supplies. Whatever skills and training we have received can be used for God’s kingdom. Is there a skill we have that we have not yet put to use for the church? Today, may we meditate on what we can give or do for the LORD.
Application: Father, thank you for blessing us with the gifts of different resources and skills. Thank you also for blessing us to be involved in the work of building your kingdom. Help me to find something new to bring for your work.
One Word: Bring what I have for God’s work