Three items

My favourite toy when I was a child was Lego. It was the only thing I wanted for birthday’s and Christmas for many years.

I was so excited when receiving the wrapped box, I would shake it to hear the sound of the Lego bricks rattling inside before opening it!

Once the wrapping paper had been ripped off, I began the building process. It was essential to get all the pieces out, then follow the step by step instructions.

I was consumed, and would stay focused, building until everything was completed. Then I would spend hours playing with it along with the other sets.

The book of Exodus contains a large section where God gave Moses some instructions to build a Tabernacle. This was a mobile place of worship, where God dwelt amongst the Israelites. It was an important holy place, the focal point of their worship.

Inside the tent was the sacred ‘Ark of the Covenant’ behind a curtain. In front of the curtain were three other items. God said…

“Make a table of acacia wood. Put the bread of the Presence on this table to be before me at all times.

Make a lampstand of pure gold. Then make its seven lamps and set them up on it so that they light the space in front of it.

You shall make an altar to burn incense on. And you shall put it before the veil that is before the ark of the Testimony, before the mercy seat that is over the Testimony, where I will meet with you.”
— Exodus 25:23,30,31,37 & Exodus 30:1&6 The NIV Bible (edited)

Moses and the Israelites followed the instructions God gave them. In this ‘holy space’ there were these three items: a table with bread on, a lampstand and an incense bowl.

I have been reflecting on these three things and what they mean for me today. Here are my thoughts, that hopefully will encourage you…

  • The bread on the table signifies that God will sustain me, He is the source and substance that gives me life.

  • The lampstand signifies guidance and illumination. When I don’t know what to do, God has the answer / the way, all I need to do is follow his path.

  • The incense bowl signifies that God will meet with me, as He is faithful to His word. He is with me wherever I go, in the ups and downs of life. 

God bless you:)

Gary Bastin

Hope Community Church leader

Gary Bastin