For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them. Ephesians 2:10 (NASB)
Series Focus: “Let There Be Light”
Do you enjoy cooking or baking? If so, you may have learned there are some recipes you can creatively modify as you go. Others you must follow exactly as written to prepare the best outcome. Some concoctions even require a specific room temperature or humidity level. Instructions matter.
In Exodus 25, God provided specific instruction for the contribution and construction of items that would fill the sanctuary. Later, we learn Bezalel crafted many of those items exactly as instructed. Finally, once completed, Moses placed each piece in the sanctuary as directed. Exodus 40:24-25 reads:
He put the lampstand in the tent of meeting, opposite the table on the south side of the tabernacle, and set up the lamps before the Lord, as the Lord had commanded Moses.
Each item in the temple manifested definitive purpose. As Jen wrote last week, one of those items was the lampstand; and its purpose was to provide continuous light. The lampstand was to be made of pure gold, constructed as one unbroken piece, and positioned in a specific place. This signified the purity, value, and continuity of the Lord, while also exemplifying the importance of His presence. God is Light, and where He is, there is no darkness.
Scripture often contains symbolism to communicate truth. Types and shadows in the Old Testament carry over into the New. We read that God’s presence gives light in the Old Testament. In the New Testament, Jesus is the Light of the world. His Light shines in us when we receive Him as our Savior. We become new creations—the righteousness of God—and so we are made as pure, like the gold of the lampstand, and carriers of His Light.
Just as the lampstand had specific placement in the sanctuary, God positions every believer in the body of Christ to fulfill specific purpose. Followers of Christ shine His light in the space surrounding their lives to do the very things God has created them to perform. Finally, in Revelation, the seven lampstands John saw in his vision are referred to as the seven churches.
The lampstand was not just a pretty candelabra for the sanctuary of the Lord. It reflected eternal significance.
The light of Jesus shines in you, if you have made Him your Lord and Savior; and God has placed you exactly where He wants you to shine and share His light in the earth. You are not tarnished brass. If you be Christ’s, then you are purified and positioned to fulfill eternal purpose. Listen for His instructions and be confident in His ability to shine through you.
Holding Fast to Hope,
Maryann
Scripture References: Exodus 25, 30, 31, 35, 39, 40:24-25; 1 John 1:5; Hebrews 8:5; John 8:12; 2 Corinthians 5:17; 1 Corinthians 12:18; Ephesians 2:10; Revelation 1:12-20
