Lord, I'm preparing a sermon for Sunday about Your ancient dwelling-place with the Israelite people, the Tabernacle. The big idea of the whole thing is that throughout the Bible, You are wanting to dwell with us. You are a living God who is in our midst, and You want us to know it.
The brilliant thing about the Tabernacle was that it was prominently placed in the center of the camp, a physical reminder that Your were with the people, dwelling within the camp. Even the temple (although most in Israel didn't see it daily) was a reminder of Your presence. We could look back and see that in the garden You walked with man, there with Adam and Eve. We can look ahead to see that You will be the light for us when You come to dwell with us again.
What helps me remember now? That the sun shines every morning, and I should be thankful that You are the light? That I eat every morning and You are the provider of life? In the tabernacle, there was a lampstand in the sanctuary the was decorated as an almond tree, the first tree to bloom after the dry season. It was a physical reminder, something fashioned as a symbol, that God was the light and the new life of the people. Did it help people remember?
I don't know (well, actually, I know that it kind of didn't help, because the Israelites are constantly missing the point.) So then, what does help us remember that You dwell with us, not far away. Certainly, I've felt like You were far away the past couple days. But You are near, and You desire to be recognized.
I suppose like many things that the answer must be relationship. We will know that You are near if we are pursuing You in relationship. I am looking for You this morning. I am looking for Your presence around me and with me.
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