Hard Hat Area

Exodus 36:8-38

And you thought it was boring the first time.

If you've keeping score at home, you may remember talking about God's instructions for the tabernacle. We heard great detail about curtains and frames and inlaid cherubims. We shared a laugh, maybe a tear...it was a grand time. If you want to relive it, look here: http://chiphall.blogspot.com/2007/11/put-it-on-my-tab.html


In this equally riveting passage, we see the tabernacle actually being built. The blueprint becomes action. They work with linen, they make rings, crossbars of acacia wood. It may have made for a beautiful edifice, it doesn't make for an interesting narrative.

But I wonder about what these workers are feeling as construction goes on. Are they paranoid that a beam isn't exactly the length God commanded? Are they pounding with pride knowing they're doing God's work? Are they thrilled to finally be connected with the other Israelite followers... finally a shared experience of importance? Are they tired of it all and resentful? Or maybe a mixture of them all?

I feel all of these emotions at times doing my own taberbacle building (not a power tool in sight). Sometimes elation at feeling like I'm finally a part of the club, sometimes skepticism that what I'm doing matters or makes a difference, sometimes burnout if the load isn't shared, sometimes self-importance, forgetting what the focus of it all should be.

Many of these emotions aren't things to be proud of... but they happen. I think especially when we focus on the "what" at the expense of the "why".

It might be easier to keep your eye on God when the commands are coming audibly, but it's no less important for us view our work as God's work- and do it for Him even when we're fighting feelings of being burdened.