So the people of Israel—every man and woman who was eager to help in the work the LORD had given them through Moses—brought their gifts and gave them freely to the LORD.

Exodus 35:29

Several weeks ago as we were looking at Exodus 25:1-2, I noted how striking it is that the Lord did not compel the Israelites to contribute their prized possessions for the construction of the Tabernacle. Rather, he allowed those to give whose hearts were moved to do so. Thus they gave freely, a point reiterated in Exodus 35:29.

Exodus 35 underscores the wide participation of the Israelites in the building of the Tabernacle. Apparently, the vast majority of people, both men and women, had willing hearts to support this crucial effort. The Tabernacle would be constructed according to God’s plan because the people of God participated.

As Christians, we are not building a literal Tabernacle, or even a physical Temple. In fact, because God’s Spirit dwells in and among us, the New Testament can identify us as the Temple of God (1 Cor. 3:16-17). Yet, like the Israelites, we too have been called to participate in the building up of the church. God’s plans for his community on earth include us. In fact, Ephesians 4 reveals that the church, as the body of Christ, will be built up only as each and every Christian helps (4:15-16). Moreover, as in the case of Israelite participation in the construction of the Tabernacle, God does not force us to help build the church. Rather, he gifts us and calls us to join him in this work.

QUESTIONS FOR REFLECTION: Are you participating in the work of building the church of Jesus Christ? Has your heart been moved to contribute your time, talent, and treasure to this crucial work of God?

PRAYER: Dear Lord, truly it is an honor to be invited to share in the work of building your church. It is, to use a familiar phrase, our “high calling.” We build your church, not only by what we do within the community of the saints, but also by how we live in the world. Every time we act for your sake, whether we’re singing in the choir or sitting in a board meeting, whether we’re teaching Sunday School or coaching a soccer team, we contribute to the building of your church.

Help us, Lord, to hear and respond to your call. Help us to do our part, each one of us. May the leaders of your church—pastors, deacons, elders, teachers—have a fresh vision for the equipping and deploying of all your people into your work.

By your Spirit, move in the hearts of all of us, so that we might freely and joyously serve you in every segment of our lives. To you be all the glory! Amen.