In verses 1-2, Moses called Bezalel and Oholiab with the skilled workmen to the fixtures and furniture of the temple. He brought out all the offerings given by the people. They gave so much that Moses had to ask them to stop. The easiest way to worship God is to give our money instead of offering ourselves as a living sacrifice as Paul said.

In verses 8-13, the workers made ten similar-sized curtains from fine twisted linen and yarn with cherubim weaved into them. Five pieces were joined into two big pieces with fifty loops sewn into their edges. Fifty gold clasps fastened them together to form the tabernacle as one unit. The covering for the tent was made from ram skins dyed red with a covering made from the hides of sea cows.

The frames were made of acacia wood of similar length and width with two projections set parallel to one another.All the frames were made the same. Twenty in all for both the south and north with two silver bases to hold up each frame. At the far end, there were six frames and two frames for the corners far end. At the two corners, the frames were double from the bottom up to the top and fitted into a single ring. A total of eight frames and sixteen silver bases, two under each frame.

The crossbars were made of acacia wood, five for the frames for each side of the tabernacle. The center crossbar was overlaid with gold and gold rings. A linen and yarn curtain like the ten curtains was hung on four acacia wooden posts overlaid with gold. The entrance was made of the same material and embroidered, five posts with hooks to hold them overlaid with gold, and the five bases made of bronze. The tabernacle was made to be packed quickly so they could go on their way to the Promised Land. The Jews obeyed every instruction in the building of the Tent of Meeting. Obedience is better than sacrifice as the prophet Samuel said.

Worship is not just giving our offerings and tithes. But we can use our talents and skills as well. In fact, giving generously our money can become a problem. There is a term, “Rice Christian” because early missionaries gave rice away to the people after coming to the services. Thus, many came for the rice and not for Christ. We need God’s wisdom to act generosity. Zeal without wisdom is foolishness. It does not make good disciples as it must begin with them being good worshippers.

Prayer: God grant me the wisdom to worship You and in making disciples for You. I will not make “Rice Christians” but good and faithful disciples who love and obey You. May I not take the easy way by giving my finances alone too but using my talents and gifts to serve you as an act of worship to You.