Good Morning.
Then the cloud covered the tabernacle of meeting, and the glory of the Lord filled the tabernacle. And Moses was not able to enter the tabernacle of meeting, because the cloud rested above it, and the glory of the Lord filled the tabernacle. (Exodus 40:34-35)
As noted previously, after the people of Israel had completed their tasks in regard to the Sanctuary, then the Glory of God filled the tent to the degree that not even Moses could enter the tent. That’s saying a lot when you consider that this is the same man who had been speaking to God face to face on more than one occasion. The scene described for us here is a precursor to what would occur many centuries later at the dedication of the Temple in Jerusalem. Then, as in the wilderness, the Presence of the Almighty was so overwhelming that the priests could not enter the Temple because the Glory of God “had filled the LORD’s House” (2 Chronicles 7:2).
We understand that when His Presence “filled” the House it is to say that His Presence was evident — manifested in such a way that everyone knew He was present. However, the Hebrew word translated as “filled” (מלא mala) also means “to complete.” This is very important to note, especially considering that the purpose of the Sanctuary was so that God could dwell among His people. In other words, the work of the Sanctuary, as it relates to its purpose, was not completed until His Presence filled the House. All the work performed by Moses and the children of Israel would have been for nothing had His Presence not been there.
Starting with the Tabernacle, and then later with the Temple in Jerusalem, we learn that these houses of worship could not fulfill their purpose until the Presence of God was there. Without Him, they were merely structures — elaborate structures perhaps — but, still, just buildings with expensive furnishings. Likewise, you and I — Temples of the Holy Spirit — can not truly function in our purpose unless and until His Presence fills us. When that is the case, then we are complete and can serve the purpose for which we were created. So then, may His Presence continually fill our lives and our homes to the fullest and may we be complete and whole. That is His desire; let it also be ours.
Blessings and Shalom,
Bill
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