As we read in Exodus 25-27. God gives a set of instructions on how to build the Tabernacle with all the various vessels inside. The instructions started as such, “Tell the Israelites to bring me an offering. You are to receive the offering for me from everyone whose heart prompts them to give.” (Exodus 25:2). He then gave a full list of the specific materials needed for the tabernacle: acacia wood, gold, silver, bronze, olive oil for the light, clothes with blue, purple, red color, etc., each with its own significance. And He then said, “Then have them make a sanctuary for me, and I will dwell among them. Make this tabernacle and all its furnishings exactly like the pattern I will show you.” (Exodus 25:8-9). 

Do you see what is happening? God invites us as His chosen people, to partner with Him, to offer according to the materials He has ordained. He wants us to minister to Him willingly, not compulsively, but from a joyful heart. God has a purpose. He wants to dwell among His people. He planned how it should be, that He would dwell in the Tabernacle, containing His promise and covenant with the people. He picked which materials to use. He gave the blueprint of the design and revealed to Moses how it should be done. And if we want to be fair, all the riches the Israelites had back then was also because of God. He told them to ask from each of their neighbors when they left Egypt and He made the Egyptians to generously give to all the Israelites. So God is the One who provides, gives the designs, shows how it should be done, to fulfil His purpose, HIs communion and fellowship with us.

As Jesus Christ died on the cross, we need not offer those materials again to meet God. Our High Priest has offered Himself, torn the veil, so we all have access to the Holy of Holies. All He asks from us is to sacrifice our bodies as a living sacrifice (Romans 12:1) out of love for Him and for our neighbors (Matthew 22:37-39). Similarly, He is still the One who provides this body, heart, soul, and mind. He has planned the Way through the sacrifice of His only begotten Son – Jesus Christ. He has given us an example of how it should be done through the life of Jesus Christ. He desires to fulfill His one sovereign purpose – to dwell among His people in eternal fellowship and perfect love.

The same invitation is extended to us today. Are we willing to offer our bodies as a living sacrifice to God today?