Then the cloud covered the Tent of Meeting, and the glory
of the LORD filled the tabernacle. Exodus
40.34
Great rejoicing! The Tent of Meeting has been completed and
set up, and God has arrived in power. What celebrations ensued.
I note with interest the sentence before the verse I have
quoted: And so Moses finished the work (v.33). It was after Moses had
done all that God had asked of him that God’s presence was powerfully
experienced. I know God is able to do anything and He’s not dependent upon, nor
confined by, our completion of the work He gives us before He will bless us
with His presence. But it does encourage me to want, even more, to be obedient
to all that He asks or requires of me.
A further aspect comes to me from the verses that complete
the Book of Exodus. The cloud of the presence of God that covered the Tent of
Meeting determined all that the Israelites did (at least for a season!). When
the cloud lifted from the tabernacle, the Israelites would move on. And they
would wait for God’s indication before they set out. God was ever present with
them. Through the cloud by day and the fire by night, God was with Israel
during all their travels.
So, what do I want? As if it’s up to me! Yet I can dream,
and desire, and pray.
Firstly, I want to be obedient to God. I would dearly like
it said, of me, as of Moses, that I finished the work. I want firstly to
be and also to do all that God would of me.
I desire and seek God’s presence. As He was with the Israelites
in all things, I, likewise, want always to live in relationship and intimacy
with Him. Out of this I seek, and expect, His leading in all that I do. The
Lord God led the Israelites constantly in, and through, the wilderness. As long
as they were focused on Him, He led them – everywhere. O, may this be for me!
Holy Father, lead me on, in Your way.
Lord God, Heavenly
Dad,
I want to undertake
and complete all that You would have of me. I want to be, and do, what You
want. May I, in the course of my life here on earth, finish the work You have
for me, and be the person You want me to be. I want to do nothing without You.
The cloud, and the movement of the cloud was a sign for the Israelites. I ask
also for clear signs from You in what I am to do. I desire to see Your glory
operate in my life. This in nothing of me but everything of You. Hear my
prayer. Know my heart. Let Your heavenly will be done on earth.
Amen
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