The book of Exodus concludes with a “do-over” for the Israelites.  Having fallen into blatant apostasy with the idolatrous golden calf, they are given a gracious opportunity to repent and renew their covenant obedience to the Lord.  Readers come to the last five chapters of Exodus wondering, “Will God still choose to dwell among such sinful people?”  Moses intercedes for fallen Israel in chapter 33.   Chapters 35-40 go to great lengths to show the expressions of repentance among the Israelites.  Thankfully, we find that God is gracious and slow to anger.

God responds favorably to repentance.

Elsewhere, the Scriptures proclaim that “a broken and contrite heart, God will not despise” (Psalm 51:17).  Israel’s “do-over” coincides with the new calendar year.  The Tabernacle is erected on the one-year anniversary of the first Passover (see Exodus 12).  New years are great times to start afresh.

When the Tabernacle is complete, God’s glory fills it with such weightiness, that Moses is unable to enter.  This leaves us with a sense of unfulfilled expectation.  God obviously responded to their repentance and renewed his own commitment to remaining in their presence.  When Jesus arrives, his message is “Repent, for the kingdom is here” (see Mark 1).  Unlike Moses, Jesus was/is able to enter the glory of God, for he came from God and was returning to him.  His glory was merely glimpsed on the Mount of Transfiguration (see Mark 9:2).  We also have caught glimpses but long to see the glory of God in the face of Jesus. 

Taking It Home: Commit Psalm 27:4 to memory, then consider the symbolism of our church building as physical reminders of spiritual truths.  Eg. The cross lifted high because it is our hope. The Word and Sacrament (Pulpit and Table) nourish us, etc.  Use these things to “gaze upon the beauty of God.”