Then the cloud covered the tent of meeting, and the glory of HaShem filled the tabernacle. And Moses was not able to enter the tent of meeting because the cloud settled on it and the glory of HaShem filled the tabernacle (40:34-35).
The furniture of the tabernacle was set up, the tabernacle itself was set up, and the priests (Aaron and his sons) were consecrated. Everything was done “according to all that HaShem commanded” (40:16). And then the glory of HaShem filled the tabernacle. How awesome was that!
The Hebrew word for “glory” here is kavod (כָּבוֹד) and comes from a root meaning importance, weight, deference, or heaviness. In the biblical context, it means glory, respect, honour, and majesty.
God’s majestic presence filled the tabernacle. I can’t imagine such a thing, yet there will be one day when we will behold such glory and more!
I think it is fitting, as we have been looking back at God’s work in forming a people for Himself, revealing Himself to them, instructing them in His ways, to also look forward at what we have to anticipate:
And I heard every creature in heaven and on earth and under the earth and in the sea, and all that is in them, saying,
“To Him who sits on the throne and to the Lamb
Be blessing and honor and glory and might forever and ever!” (Revelation 5:13)And I saw no temple in its city, for its temple is the Lord God the Almighty and the Lamb. And the city has no need of sun or moon to shine on it, for the glory of God gives it light, and its lamp is the Lamb. By its light will the nations walk… (Revelation 21:22-24).
Glorious!
Prayer: Lord God, I thank You for what lies ahead, as you will make a new heaven and a new earth, where you will dwell with Your people. May I not lose sight of what is coming. I thank you that I can worship You now. You are glorious even though I don’t see You! Your creation speaks of Your glory, the birds sing of Your glory, and I can as well! Hallelujah!
