In Exodus, God’s instructions for the building of the ark of God are set out in precise detail. The ark became the home of the Ten Commandment tablets, a reminder of God’s expectations; a jar of manna, a reminder that God provides; and Aaron’s rod, a reminder of God’s promise to save us. The lid of the ark, representing God’s throne, is also called, “the mercy seat.” Sometimes I find it hard to reconcile the Old Testament God, who had high expectations and severe consequences, with the New Testament Jesus, who loves us so deeply he died for us. But maybe they’re not really opposites. God is love. That love provided our only hope for forgiveness in Jesus. For that, we should offer our thanks and praise. But the New Testament God is still righteous and just, and we honour and worship by living lives of truth and integrity and love.
Loving God, from the beginning you have provided what we need for daily life, protection, wisdom and salvation. Help us not to take these gifts for granted, but to worship and honour you in thought, word and deed. Amen. —