Good Morning.
This is the inventory of the tabernacle, the tabernacle of the Testimony, which was counted according to the commandment of Moses, for the service of the Levites, by the hand of Ithamar, son of Aaron the priest. (Exodus 38:21)
There are many things recorded in Scripture that, at first glance, seem to be laborious and unnecessary — at least from our perspective so many centuries later. For instance, as you read through the Bible, what do you do when you get to the different genealogies or the numbering of the different tribes and and camps? Do you read it all or skim over it? And if you do read it all, how much attention to you pay to it? My point is that there is nothing superfluous and unnecessary in Scripture — God has a reason for everything He has revealed to us through His Word.
When it comes to the accounting of the Sanctuary and all the materials that went into building it, rather than rushing through a reading of it, let’s consider what we can learn from it. Not only does it give us an idea of the wealth contained within the Tabernacle, but it also speaks to the integrity of those God chose to build His house. Moses, Betzalel, Ithamar, etc were considered to be honest men, or else, why would God have chosen them to serve Him in the way that they did? Even so, a full accounting of the proceeds is given so that all will know what went into the building of the Sanctuary.
The lesson for us is that, in whatever capacity they serve, God’s people should be transparent, above board and accountable for what God entrusts to them. This is especially true for leaders because it is their duty to both exemplify and inspire honesty and transparency in those that look to them for guidance. In short, this simple verse teaches all of us that we are to live a life that is above reproach and one that avoids the very appearance of evil. Obviously, this is sometimes easier said than done but, still, it is not unreasonable and not unattainable. Frankly, it is what we must do if we are to be called followers of Messiah, and let us not forget that, through Him, we are given the strength to accomplish all things.
Blessings and Shalom,
Bill
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