Through the Bible in 2012

Readings:

Exodus 37, 38, 39, 40

Comments:

Sometimes parts of the Bible repeat. Often we can tell why. Sometimes it's because the same story is being told from different perspectives or from different story-tellers. Sometimes we are not sure why.

In reading about the details of the furniture and objects used in worship of God, I am struck by the details. Is it important to us in our worship that our baptism water is placed in a certain area in the worship space? Is it okay for the baptistry or bowl to be empty? Or should it always be full of water? What about the Communion Table? Are we careful about where we place it? What we set on it? Do we make sure it is free of dust and other markings?

Some churches are very particular about where objects are placed, how they are used, and how we treat them. Others are less concerned. Some churches use a Commnunion Table to place brochures in the entry to their church on Sundays that they are not observing the Lord's Supper. Other churches would throw a fit if anyone set anything on the table other than objects used in worship.

What does our worship say about our view of God and our relationship with God?

The last few verses of Exodus tell us that God's presence filled the worship space. God's presence, in the form of a cloud, let the people to stay put or set out on their journeys. What is the evidence of God's presence in our lives and our community of faith today? How does God lead us?